The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, has sent a new police chief to Anambra State as preparations heighten for the November 8 governorship election.
The police boss has appointed CP Abayomi Shogunle to take charge of election security in the state.
Shogunle has already taken up the role and is now the Commissioner of Police responsible for election duties in Anambra.
His arrival is seen as part of the final security arrangements before voters head to the polls.
According to the police authorities in Anambra, Shogunle has begun enforcing strict election-security measures.
The plan is to stop ballot snatching, vote buying, political thuggery, intimidation of voters, and any form of disruption at polling centres.
“CP Shogunle has established a central command framework to ensure real-time intelligence sharing, coordination, and rapid response. Over 60,000 security personnel drawn from agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) will be deployed to secure the 5,720 polling units, with tactical reserves positioned at inter-LGA and state boundaries, as well as designated collation centres.”
The command also noted that online activities will be monitored closely. The Electoral Offences Desk will track cyber-related offences and investigate digital threats against the electoral process.
Shogunle also repeated that local vigilante groups and community security outfits are not allowed to take part in election security.
Only federal security agencies will operate around polling units and collation centres, in line with national laws.
He issued a firm warning to political bigwigs and government officials. VIPs will not be allowed to move around with armed escorts on election day. Anyone who attempts it will face arrest and prosecution. Their security operatives will also be withdrawn.
“Only designated INEC officials, accredited observers, and journalists are permitted to move freely within approved areas,” he added.
However, security agencies say they are committed to delivering a peaceful, credible, and transparent election in Anambra, with real-time response teams spread across the state.
