The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensuring a peaceful, credible, and secure governorship election in Anambra State on November 8, 2025.
Represented by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Intelligence Department and DIG Election for the Anambra poll, DIG Benjamin Okolo, fdc, the IGP made the declaration at the signing of the Peace Accord in Awka on Monday, November 3, 2025.
Addressing key stakeholders, including the INEC Chairman, traditional leaders, political actors, and civil society representatives, the IGP emphasised that the signing event underscored a national resolve to safeguard peace and the rule of law before, during, and after the election.
According to him, the Police remain fully prepared and constitutionally empowered to guarantee the safety of voters, electoral officials, and materials throughout the election. He noted that the Force’s deployment strategy is intelligence-driven and designed to neutralise threats, maintain order, and boost public confidence in the electoral process.
Egbetokun stressed that the Police would remain neutral, professional, and uncompromising in enforcing the law. He warned that any attempt to disrupt the election, manipulate the process, intimidate voters, or engage in political violence would be met with swift and lawful consequences.
The IGP further announced a multi-layered security architecture involving sister agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), covering all 21 local government areas and 4,608 polling units in the state.
He also declared a total ban on unauthourized security outfits and vigilante formations during the election period, reiterating that only constitutionally recognised security agencies are permitted to operate. Particular attention, he said, would be directed toward preventing the activities of proscribed groups, including IPOB and ESN, to ensure they do not interfere with the exercise.
Highlighting a zero-tolerance protocol for electoral offences, he stated that acts such as vote-buying, ballot snatching, thuggery, and voter intimidation would be treated as serious crimes. Arrests would be immediate where evidence exists, with dedicated Electoral Offences Desks set to ensure diligent prosecution.
The Police chief also outlined movement restrictions for VIPs, journalists, observers, and political party agents on election day, stressing that no armed escorts would be allowed near polling or collation centres.
Calling for responsibility and patriotism, the IGP urged political leaders to conduct themselves with honour and ensure their supporters adhere to the law. He charged community and opinion leaders to discourage violence and promote peace.
“To the people of Anambra State,” he affirmed, “the Nigeria Police Force stands as your shield. Come out and vote without fear. Your life, your vote, and your voice will be protected.”
He concluded with prayers for the peace of Anambra State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
