Police authorities in Anambra State have launched intensified security operations across major flashpoints ahead of the November 8 governorship election.
The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, issued the directive during a statewide security briefing, ordering raids and patrols to prevent political thuggery, cult-related violence, and illegal possession of firearms.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the development in a statement released Tuesday in Awka.
According to the commissioner, the coordinated operations are designed to ensure a peaceful, credible, and secure electoral atmosphere.
“Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders must intensify intelligence-driven operations and security raids across identified flashpoints,” he said.
Police Promise Neutrality, Warn Against Violence
Orutugu revealed that credible intelligence indicates that some groups acting for political interests are plotting to mobilize youths for violent disruptions before and during the polls. He warned that such plans would be decisively crushed.
“The command will not tolerate any attempt to intimidate voters, breach public peace, or undermine the electoral process,” he declared, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force remains strictly neutral and non-partisan.
He reaffirmed that the police would protect lives and property, safeguard the integrity of the election, and enforce the law “without fear, favour, or political influence.”
INEC Declares Anambra Ready
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says Anambra is fully prepared for the upcoming poll after a comprehensive readiness assessment by a delegation from its Abuja headquarters.
The team, led by National Commissioner for Election Planning and Monitoring, Rhoda Gumus, inspected logistics, materials, and security arrangements across several local government areas, including Dunukofia and Oyi.
In a daily bulletin signed by INEC’s Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Eta-Messi, the commission said non-sensitive materials had been deployed and that Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection was progressing smoothly.
Gumus urged citizens to remain patient and cooperative during the process. “Every vehicle, every ballot, every form must be properly tracked,” added Kenneth Ukeagu, another National Commissioner on the team.
Anambra’s forthcoming governorship election is expected to be a litmus test for the newly appointed Chairman of INEC, Prof. Amupitan, who has promised henceforth, Nigerian elections will end at the polling booths, and not in the courts.
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