The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, along with his delegation, met at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday to establish a strategic plan aimed at ensuring peaceful elections.
The meeting was attended by the Force Management Team and other distinguished representatives from the commission, including the National Commissioner for the North-Central Region, Professor Sanni Muhammed; the National Commissioners for the North-East Region, Mrs. Jamila Abubakar Malafa, and Dr. Baba Bila; the National Commissioner for the South-South Region, Rear Admiral Rhoda Gumus; the National Commissioner for the South-West Region, Professor Kunle Ajayi; as well as senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
The discussions centered on the security framework necessary for the forthcoming electoral cycle, particularly in light of the current national security challenges affecting the imminent Ekiti and Osun off-cycle elections, the upcoming bye-elections, and the 2027 General Elections.
During his address, Professor Amupitan emphasized the critical importance of implementing proactive security measures and providing specialized training for personnel.
He specifically called for the establishment of a secure environment that allows Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, and Persons Living with Disabilities, PWDs, to exercise their constitutional rights without fear or obstruction.
In his reply, IGP Olatunji Disu characterized the visit as a timely contribution to democratic stability. He revealed that the Nigeria Police Force has already initiated strategic actions, including precision intelligence mapping to counter political violence, cult-related activities, and intimidation; comprehensive planning for the secure transportation of electoral materials and personnel; coordinated communication with allied security agencies to ensure a unified operational front; and efforts to combat misinformation.
The IGP further assured the delegation that all officers assigned to election duty will be strictly guided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act.
He emphasized that personnel are currently undergoing comprehensive training on the rules of engagement and the safeguarding of human rights.
As the primary agency responsible for election management, IGP Disu stated that the Force is dedicated to upholding public order with a strict policy of zero tolerance for professional misconduct.
He also assured that any officer found lacking in their responsibilities or engaging in actions that compromise the integrity of the elections will face disciplinary measures in accordance with the law.
In his concluding remarks, the IGP reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all citizens, with special consideration for Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, and Persons with Disabilities, PWDs.
While pledging the full support of the Nigeria Police Force to INEC, he called for unreserved cooperation from the Commission and other stakeholders to facilitate a smooth and successful transition for the nation.
