The Nigerian Police Force has issued a stern warning to non‑state actors—including the state‑owned vigilante group Ebube‑Agu, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and the Eastern Security Network (ESN)—to refrain from interfering with the November 6 governorship election in Anambra State. The warning was delivered by Inspector‑General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, represented by DIG Ben Okoro, during the signing of the National Peace Accord at the International Conference Centre in Awka, the state capital.
The police emphasized that providing security for the election is the sole responsibility of federal agents. Any individual or group found bearing arms, obstructing lawful voting, or undermining the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will face decisive force. Specifically, any attempt by IPOB, ESN, or other non‑state actors to interfere with the election will be met with an immediate and overwhelming law‑enforcement response.
A zero‑tolerance enforcement protocol has been activated to ensure full compliance with the Electoral Act and related laws. Electoral offenses such as ballot snatching, vote buying, and voter intimidation will be treated as criminal violations of national security and prosecuted under the Electoral Act 2022. To prevent misconduct, specialized cybercrime units have been deployed to monitor and counter digital misinformation and online propaganda that could disrupt public peace or discredit the electoral process.
The police have also outlined specific election‑day protocols, including restrictions on VIP movement, personnel mobility, and prohibitions on campaigning or partisan displays near polling units. Possession of any weapon or instrument of intimidation will result in immediate arrest. Responsibility for maintaining peace rests heavily on political parties, candidates, and campaign managers, who will be held directly accountable for the conduct of their supporters.
As the critical governorship election approaches, the police reassured the public of their commitment to a peaceful and secure electoral process and pledged to take all necessary measures to prevent disruptions or violence. With the election only days away, they urged all stakeholders to respect the law and the electoral process and to cooperate in ensuring a successful, peaceful outcome. The international community is watching closely, viewing the election as a vital test of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and its ability to conduct free and fair elections.
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