The police are fully prepared and fortified to protect lives and property before, during, and after the November 8 governorship election in Anambra.

The police commissioner in Anambra, Ikioye Orutugu, made this known in a statement on Sunday in Awka.

”All tactical units, intelligence teams, and patrol formations are on heightened alert, with adequate logistics and coordination with sister security agencies in place. We are fully prepared and fortified for the protection of lives and property before, during, and after the election,” he said at the end of his statewide engagement on election security with the officers and men in police formations across the state.

Mr Orutugu commended the officers for their dedication and discipline throughout the advocacy campaign, which covered all area commands and divisions in Anambra. He underscored the importance of neutrality, professionalism, and respect for human rights among police personnel during election duties.

The police commissioner urged the officers and men to maintain vigilance, demonstrate courage, and uphold the core values of the force in ensuring that peace and order prevail throughout the electoral process.

He also used the opportunity to encourage members of the public to remain law-abiding and security-conscious.

Mr Orutugu assured residents that the police would continue to collaborate with communities and stakeholders to guarantee a peaceful and credible election.

In the last 20 days, the police initiated a “peaceful dialogue” with various security stakeholders, local government chairpersons, and traditional leaders to ensure a free and safe governorship election.

The engagements, which began in Njikoka on October 14 and subsequently expanded to the Aguata, Otuocha, Ogidi, and Ihiala areas of the state, have reportedly touched on flashpoints and aimed to sensitise residents to the need for peace and safety during the election. 

(NAN)