By 9jaeye 
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has taken a significant step to secure the upcoming Ondo State governorship election by announcing that the Western Nigeria Security Network, also known as Amotekun, and other vigilante groups will not participate in the electoral process. Scheduled for November 16, 2024, this election will now rely solely on federal security agencies for election-day operations.
In a statement issued on November 10, 2024, Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi detailed the IGP’s directive, emphasizing that only the Nigeria Police Force and federal security agencies hold the mandate to oversee security during elections. Therefore, any state-backed security groups such as Amotekun or vigilante organizations must stand down during the election. The statement stressed that the police aim to ensure a fair, transparent, and peaceful electoral process without interference from non-federal security outfits.
Meanwhile, the police force has prepared extensively for the Ondo election, mobilizing officers from specialized units including the Special Intervention Squad, Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, and the K-9 Unit. In addition to on-ground presence, police helicopters will conduct aerial patrols, while gunboats will secure waterways in Ondo’s riverine regions. Through these measures, the police intend to cover all potential security needs in both urban and rural parts of the state.
The directive to exclude state-established security outfits aligns with similar moves by the Nigeria Police Force in previous elections. During the 2023 governorship and state assembly elections, the IGP also barred Amotekun and other local security groups from election-day duties, ensuring that only federally mandated entities managed the election’s security. By doing so, the police reiterate their commitment to neutrality and adherence to the rule of law.
Commitment to Law and Order
The IGP has made it clear that anyone planning to disrupt the electoral process will face serious consequences. To avoid chaos, he warned political thugs and troublemakers that the police will deal decisively with any attempt at electoral violence.
Upholding Neutrality in the Election Process
This decision highlights the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to neutrality, underscoring that they will protect the integrity of the electoral process. Consequently, voters and political participants can expect a secure environment focused on fair democratic principles.
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