Shogunle Assumes As CP Election Duty Anambra, Reiterates Ban On State Security, VIP Movement
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has appointed CP Abayomi Shogunle, as the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Nov. 8 off season election in Anambra.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra Command who disclosed this said Abayomi assumed duty on Tuesday, Nov. 6
Ikenga said CP Shogunle’s posting was in line with the operational strategy of the Police approved by the IGP.
He said it was aimed at enhancing strategic security planning towards ensuring a peaceful, credible, and transparent electoral process in the State.
He said already, Shogunle had activated the IGP’s Enforcement Protocol for anti-electoral offences to ensure a zero tolerance for ballot snatching, vote-buying, political thuggery, and voter intimidation.
“The CP has also stepped up the Electoral Offences Desk to monitor social media and online spaces towards identifying cyber-related crimes for prompt investigation and prosecution.
He said the CP had also emplaced a central command framework to ensure real-time intelligence sharing, coordination, and rapid response with a joint deployment of over 60,000 security personnel.
“This is within the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security who will secure the 5,720 polling units with tactical reserves along inter-LGA and State boundaries and also designated election collation centers.
“The CP reiterates the total ban on all vigilante groups such as Agunechemba and all other quasi-security groups in the State, only Federal Government security agencies are authorised to provide election security,” he said.
Ikenga said VIP movements with armed escorts or security aides at polling or collation centres remain strictly prohibited, warning violators will face immediate apprehension, withdrawal of such escorts, and prosecution.
He said only designated INEC officials, accredited observers, and journalists are allowed to move freely between designated areas.
“The CP further called on political actors, community leaders, and the electorate to support the police and other security agencies in maintaining peace before, during, and after the election.
“The Commissioner of Police can be reached on 08096000079,” he said.
