A crucial shift is underway in Nigeria’s election security strategy as the police move to tighten control ahead of key governorship polls.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has pledged zero tolerance for misconduct during the Ekiti and Osun elections.
However, beyond routine planning, new security measures are already being rolled out.
Disu gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja while hosting the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, and his delegation.
Moreover, both institutions aligned strategies to improve Nigeria’s electoral security framework. Attention was placed on Ekiti and Osun governorship elections.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Amupitan stressed the need for proactive steps.
He said, “There is an urgent need for proactive security measures and specialised training for personnel to ensure the credibility of our elections.”
In addition, he highlighted the importance of inclusivity in the electoral process.
“We must guarantee a secure environment that allows Internally Displaced Persons and Persons Living with Disabilities to exercise their constitutional rights without fear or hindrance,” he added.
Meanwhile, Disu described the engagement as timely and essential for democratic stability.
“This engagement is a timely intervention in our collective effort to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process,” he said.
Furthermore, the IGP revealed that precision intelligence mapping has already begun.
“We have activated strategic measures, including precision intelligence mapping to neutralise political violence, cult-related activities, and all forms of intimidation that may undermine the electoral process,” he stated.
The police election security strategy also includes stronger logistics planning.
“We are undertaking robust planning to guarantee the safe movement of electoral materials and personnel, while also harmonising communication with sister security agencies to ensure a seamless operational front,” Disu explained.
However, misinformation remains a growing concern during elections. In response, the police are putting systems in place to tackle false narratives.
“We are also intensifying efforts to counter misinformation and disinformation capable of inciting unrest or undermining public confidence in the electoral system,” he said.
In addition, officers are undergoing specialised training focused on professionalism and human rights.
Disu made it clear that discipline will be strictly enforced.
“All personnel deployed for election duty will be guided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act,” he warned.
“There will be zero tolerance for professional misconduct. Any officer found wanting or engaging in acts that undermine the credibility of the polls will be disciplined in accordance with the law.”
Meanwhile, the police also reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive elections.
“We are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all citizens, particularly Internally Displaced Persons and Persons Living with Disabilities, to freely exercise their franchise,” he added.
As preparations continue, collaboration has been identified as a key factor.
“We call for unfiltered cooperation from INEC and all relevant stakeholders to ensure a smooth, peaceful, and credible electoral process,” he said.
With these measures in place, expectations are high for improved election security.
