The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has cautioned political thugs and party loyalists against disrupting the Nov. 8 Anambra governorship election, warning that security agencies will deal decisively with offenders.
Egbetokun, represented by Acting Commissioner of Police Umar Hadejia, issued the warning on Tuesday in Abuja during the Cleen Foundation’s Security Threat Assessment (STA) presentation on the forthcoming poll.
The IGP said robust security measures had been put in place to safeguard polling centres, INEC facilities, officials, observers, and voters.
He urged political leaders and their supporters to honour the peace accord signed by all parties, stressing that anyone who violated it would face the full weight of the law.
“Any individual or group attempting to disrupt the electoral process will be apprehended and prosecuted. We are fully prepared to protect lives, property and ensure a credible election,” he said.
In a related statement, NSCDC Commandant General Ahmed Audi, represented by ACG David Ojelabi, appealed to the electorate to act responsibly and cooperate with security personnel.
“We are confident that Anambra will experience a peaceful election. Our operatives, in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, are fully prepared for deployment,” Audi said.
Mr Salaudeen Hashim, Director of Programmes at Cleen Foundation, said the updated Security Threat Assessment was designed to help agencies anticipate and mitigate risks that could threaten the credibility of the poll.
Hashim noted that the report identified potential flashpoints and emphasised the need for neutrality, improved coordination, and the retraining of security personnel.
He further called on the media to promote factual and balanced reporting, warning that inflammatory coverage could heighten tensions.
“The 2025 Anambra election will be a major test of Nigeria’s ability to safeguard democracy while maintaining peace and security,” he said.
