BY MIKE OSAROGIAGBON
As Edo people prepare to go to the poll to elect their next governor on Saturday September 21, 2024, the Nigeria Police Force has warned troublemakers to steer clear of the exercise, reassuring the public of unmatched security during and after the exercise.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Frank Mba overseeing security for the election gave the warning and reassurance during a press conference at the state police Command headquarters, Benin City, today.
The DIG stated that the police had in top synergy with the army, Airforce, DSS, Navy and other sister agencies perfected arrangements to ensure a violent free election.
He warned those without assigned legitimate duties including those claiming to be media practitioners, election Observers without accreditation, vigilante, members of private security organizations, hunters, to steer clear of the entire process.
“We want to reassure the people of Edo State that we will provide a violent-free election, a level playing field for all. We will hold people accountable who will infringe on the law.
“We are not the one conducting the election perse, our duty is to ensure a peaceful and violent free exercise. We will make arrest where necessary”, DIG Mba assured.
The police, as the leading agency in the election said the use of sirens and political party emblems, weapons like walking sticks, umbrellas and any object that can be easily converted to weapons are prohibited.
He stated that roving and monitoring teams have been emplaced to look out for misconduct by any police personnel.
The DIG advised journalists to fact check information that will be circulated during and after the exercise to avoid the promotion of instrumentality of fake news capable of instigating break down of laws and order.
Mba however provided his operational contact number 07025000383 and advised the public against making prank calls.
Also present at the press conference were other senior police officers deployed for election duties in Edo.
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