The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 13 Police Headquarters, Ukpo, Anambra State, AIG Miller Dantawaye, has directed personnel deployed for the local government elections in the state on Saturday to be strict, professional and impartial in their conduct during the electoral process.
Dantawaye handed the directive to the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Ama, as part of measures to ensure the elections are conducted peacefully.
The directive was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Zone 13, ASP Chidera Oha.
Anambra and Enugu states are in Zone 13 of the Nigeria Police Force with operational headquarters at Ukpo, Anambra state.
Dantawaye had warned officers before, during and after the polls against open or covert identification with, support for or assistance to any political party, candidate or interest group.
He urged the personnel to carry out their duties in accordance with the law, professional ethics and the laid down directives of the Nigeria Police Force.
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The AIG also directed officers to provide adequate security to all stakeholders and ensure that voters exercise their civic rights peacefully and orderly without intimidation, harassment and discrimination.
“The credibility of the police during elections largely depended on the professionalism, discipline and impartiality of individual officers,” he said.
Dantawaye called on personnel to be vigilant and respect the rights of citizens and avoid any act that could undermine the integrity of the electoral process.
He also urged the officers to report security threats or attempts to derail the peaceful conduct of the elections through proper channels without delay.
The AIG reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for the Anambra local government elections, urging the personnel to operate within the law, be politically neutral and professional in the exercise.