The Nigerian Police Force has assigned Commissioner of Police Abayomi Shogunle to lead election duties in Anambra State for the upcoming governorship election on 8 November. The announcement was made by Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, in a press release. Ikenga said that CP Shogunle has assumed the role of Commissioner of Police and will oversee policing in the state during the election.
Upon taking office, Shogunle activated the Inspector General of Police’s Enforcement Protocol for anti‑electoral offences, which is designed to prevent ballot snatching, vote buying, political thuggery, and voter intimidation. A central command framework has been established to facilitate real‑time intelligence sharing, coordination, and rapid response. More than 60,000 security personnel from various agencies will be deployed to secure the 5,720 polling units, with tactical reserves positioned along inter‑local government area and state boundaries and at designated election collation centres.
The Electoral Offences Desk has also been strengthened to monitor social media and online spaces for cyber‑related crimes, ensuring prompt investigation and prosecution. The policing operational strategy, approved by Inspector General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, aims to enhance strategic security planning and ensure a peaceful, credible, and transparent electoral process in the state.
CP Shogunle reiterated the total ban on all vigilante groups, such as Agunechemba, and other quasi‑security outfits in Anambra, stating that only federal government security agencies are authorized to provide election security. Moreover, VIP movements with armed escorts or security aides at polling or collation centres are strictly prohibited; violators will be immediately apprehended, have their escorts withdrawn, and face prosecution. Only designated Independent National Electoral Commission officials, accredited observers, and journalists are permitted to move freely between designated areas.
The deployment of CP Shogunle and the implementation of these security measures are intended to ensure a secure and orderly electoral process in Anambra State. With the election approaching, the Nigerian Police Force is taking proactive steps to prevent electoral malpractices and maintain public safety.
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