Inspector-General of Police Usman Baba told reporters in Abuja that the Nigeria Police Force will use minimal force to address any violence that may follow the announcement of election results. Speaking at the 66th session of the State House Briefing organized by the Presidential Communications Team at the Aso Rock Villa, the IGP emphasized that the police’s election plan extends well beyond the results declaration. Accordingly, adequate measures are in place to identify, isolate and arrest individuals and groups involved in post‑election violence.
Earlier, Baba announced that 310,973 police personnel would be deployed ahead of the elections. These officers will come from conventional police units, mobile police, special forces, the intelligence response team, the counter‑terrorism unit and other branches. Their efforts will be reinforced by an additional 93,495 personnel drawn from the National Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigeria Correctional Service, the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
In terms of mobile infrastructure, the IGP disclosed that at least 74 armoured personnel carriers, 37 water cannons, 1,240 patrol vehicles, 50 ambulances and 300 motorcycles will be deployed nationwide. The deployment also includes surveillance helicopters, canine units and other support assets. Baba stressed that the force will police against elements seeking to disrupt the smooth conduct of the electoral exercise while protecting peace‑loving citizens so they can safely go out and vote. Details will follow.
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