The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Wednesday met with the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja to strengthen security preparations for upcoming elections across the country.
The high-level meeting brought together members of the Force Management Team and senior INEC officials, including National Commissioners from the North-Central, North-East, South-South and South-West regions, alongside top officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
Discussions focused on developing a robust security framework for the forthcoming electoral cycle, particularly the Ekiti and Osun off-cycle governorship elections, pending bye-elections, and the 2027 General Elections amid prevailing security concerns nationwide.
Speaking during the meeting, Professor Amupitan stressed the need for proactive security measures and specialized training for security personnel involved in election duties. He also underscored the importance of creating a safe atmosphere for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) to participate freely in the electoral process without intimidation or hindrance.
In his response, IGP Disu described the engagement as timely and essential for strengthening democratic stability in Nigeria. He disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force had already commenced strategic operations aimed at preventing political violence, cult-related activities and voter intimidation.
According to the police chief, the Force is also implementing comprehensive plans for the secure movement of electoral materials and personnel while maintaining close collaboration with other security agencies to ensure coordinated operations during elections.
He further revealed that efforts were underway to tackle misinformation capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process.
The IGP assured the INEC delegation that officers deployed for election duties would operate strictly within the provisions of the Constitution and the Electoral Act. He added that personnel are currently undergoing intensive training on rules of engagement and human rights protection.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to credible elections, Disu maintained that the Force would enforce a zero-tolerance policy against professional misconduct. He warned that any officer found compromising the integrity of the electoral process would face disciplinary action in line with the law.
The police boss also reiterated the Force’s resolve to provide adequate security for all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups such as IDPs and PWDs, during future elections.
While pledging the full support of the Nigeria Police Force to INEC, Disu called for stronger collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure peaceful, transparent and successful elections across the country.
