The Anambra State Police Command has directed coordinated security operations across identified trouble spots in the state as the November 8 governorship election draws near.
Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu issued the directive to contain potential threats of political thuggery, cult violence, and illegal arms possession, according to a statement by the command’s spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, on Tuesday in Awka.
“Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders must intensify intelligence-driven operations and coordinated security raids across identified flashpoints in their respective areas of jurisdiction in the state,” the statement read.
Orutugu said intelligence reports indicated that certain individuals and groups, acting for political interests, might be mobilising youths for violent activities before and during the election period.
He warned that the command would not tolerate any attempt to disrupt public peace, intimidate voters, or undermine lawful electoral processes.
The commissioner stressed that the Nigeria Police Force remained neutral and non-partisan in the electoral process, adding that the police duty is to protect lives and property, safeguard the integrity of the electoral space, and enforce the law without fear, favour, or political influence.
The Independent National Electoral Commission declared on Monday that Anambra State is fully prepared for the governorship election.
The announcement followed a week-long readiness assessment tour by a high-level delegation from the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The delegation, led by National Commissioner for Election Planning and Monitoring, Rhoda Gumus, completed an extensive review of facilities, logistics, and security arrangements across the state, according to a daily bulletin issued on Monday by the Editor-in-Chief and Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Eta-Messi.
The delegation inspected ongoing activities in several local government areas, including Dunukofia and Oyi, where deployment of non-sensitive materials was taking place.
They also observed the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards and interacted with voters. Gumus urged patience and cooperation, assuring that every eligible voter would be attended to.
“Every vehicle, every ballot, every form must be properly tracked,” Kenneth Ukeagu, one of the National Commissioners in the delegation, said.
