The Police force has made a firm commitment to arrest and prosecute those responsible for election violence and their sponsors in Bayelsa state. Daniel Sokari-Pedro, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) overseeing the election in the state, delivered this message on Thursday in Yenagoa as the state readies itself for the upcoming governorship election on Saturday.
Addressing election stakeholders and senior police officers deployed for the election, Mr. Sokari-Pedro emphasized that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has given specific directives for the police personnel to ensure a free, fair, safe, and unobstructed democratic process during the off-cycle election.
He highlighted the volatile nature of all three Senatorial zones in the state, singling out specific local government areas as potential flashpoints, which include Sagbama, Nembe, Kolokuma/Opokuma, Southern Ijaw, and Brass.
Mr. Sokari-Pedro expressed concern over the involvement of youths in election violence, attributing the escalation to influential figures, referred to as “godfathers” and “principals,” who are the main promoters of these disturbances.
He lamented the culture of impunity that has allowed both perpetrators and their backers to evade prosecution, reassuring the peace-loving citizens of the state that during this election, not only the culprits but also their identified sponsors will face consequences, ensuring a peaceful electoral process in Bayelsa.
In an effort to maintain order, Sokari-Pedro directed police officers in all local governments to conduct a show of force and prevent any individuals suspected of instigating violence from causing disruptions during the election. He also warned that any civilians found armed at polling centres will be arrested, and failure to do so by the police or their assigned agents will result in their arrest as well.
Furthermore, he stressed that police will enforce the protection of voters, INEC officials, property, and materials throughout the voting, counting, and collation processes. Sanctions will be imposed on officers for any breaches of protocol.
In an appeal to parents and guardians, the DIG urged them to caution their children to refrain from engaging in any form of trouble during and after the election.
These proactive efforts by the Police force aim to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral exercise, signaling a strong stance against electoral malpractice and violence in the upcoming Bayelsa governorship election.
