The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ikioye Orutugu, has reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to neutrality in the upcoming governorship election, scheduled to take place on November 8. According to Orutugu, the primary focus of the police is to ensure a secure and peaceful electoral process, rather than taking an interest in the outcome of the election.
During a visit to the Aguata and Otuocha Area Commands, Orutugu emphasized the importance of maintaining security before, during, and after the election. This visit was part of the ongoing security engagements ahead of the polls, as stated in a press release by the state police command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
The police commissioner stressed that the Nigeria Police Force remains a strictly neutral and non-partisan institution, with the sole objective of ensuring a credible and violence-free electoral process. He charged Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and operational teams to demonstrate professionalism, discipline, and firmness, particularly as political activities intensify.
Orutugu also engaged with various stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community security structures, to promote peaceful civic participation and discourage voter intimidation. The discussions focused on strengthening local intelligence sharing and countering electoral violence.
The commissioner’s emphasis on the peace, unity, and collective stability of Anambra State underscores the importance of maintaining law and order during the election period. With the election just two weeks away, the police force’s commitment to ensuring a secure and peaceful environment is crucial for the successful conduct of the polls.
As the state prepares for the governorship election, the police force’s neutrality and professionalism will be closely watched. The ability of the police to maintain security and prevent electoral violence will be essential in ensuring the credibility of the election and upholding the democratic process. The people of Anambra State will be looking to the police to provide a secure environment, allowing them to exercise their right to vote without fear of intimidation or violence.