Gombe State Commissioner of Police, CP Oqua Etim, has warned that aides and escorts of top personalities must not accompany their principals or other politicians to polling stations. He said such conduct will attract stringent disciplinary measures from the command. The warning comes ahead of the forthcoming governorship and State House of Assembly elections in the state.
“The idea is to ensure all citizens freely participate in the electoral process devoid of intimidation, harassment or fear. So, all VIP security aides must refrain from accompanying their principals on Election Day,” Etim explained. He added that the order is intended to create a safe, secure and enabling environment for the smooth conduct of the exercise.
The commissioner also urged all eligible voters to be law‑abiding and to turn out to exercise their franchise. While vigilante and hunter groups are exempted from the directive, Etim stressed that any group without legal backing should not take part in the election process. “Those affected by the warning are quasi‑security outfits such as vigilante groups, hunters, security outfits, and any other voluntary organisation without legal backing. Anyone found in uniform flouting this directive will be arrested and arraigned before the court during the forthcoming elections,” he concluded.
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