The Nigeria Police Force has issued a stern warning to vigilantes, members of private security organisations, hunters, media practitioners, and election observers without proper accreditation to stay away from Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Frank Mba, who is in charge of election security, delivered the warning in Benin yesterday.
He assured voters that robust security measures were in place to ensure their safety during and after the election.
DIG Mba stated that the police, in collaboration with the Army, Air Force, Navy, Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies, had finalised plans to guarantee a peaceful and violence-free election.
“We want to reassure the people of Edo State that we will provide a violence-free election and ensure a level playing field for all participants. Anyone who violates the law will be held accountable,” Mba emphasised.
He clarified that while the police were not responsible for conducting the election, their role was to maintain peace and order. “Our duty is to ensure a peaceful and violence-free process. We will make arrests where necessary,” he added.
DIG Mba also issued a warning against the display of political party symbols and the carrying of objects such as walking sticks, umbrellas, or any items that could potentially be turned into weapons.
In addition, he urged journalists to fact-check information before publication, stressing the importance of avoiding the spread of fake news, which could incite violence or disrupt public order during and after the election.
