The Deputy Inspector-General of Police overseeing the Ondo State gubernatorial election, DIG Sylvester Alabi, reaffirmed on Thursday the readiness of the police and other security agencies for Saturday’s poll.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Ondo State Police Command Headquarters in Akure, DIG Alabi addressed officers assigned to election duties and members of the press.
He highlighted the extensive deployment of security personnel across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas, 203 wards, and 3,933 polling units.
He assured that each polling unit would have at least four police officers working alongside personnel from other election security agencies to ensure a seamless electoral process.
The DIG stressed the importance of proactive measures, particularly intelligence gathering and firmness, to counter potential security threats and disruptions.
These measures, he said, are crucial for maintaining safety, preventing electoral malpractice such as vote-buying, and upholding the integrity of the election.
“By leveraging intelligence gathering, the police can guarantee a secure, free, and fair electoral process. To this end, the Force has conducted a comprehensive threat analysis and deployed personnel to areas identified as vulnerable during the election,” DIG Alabi stated.
He called for collaboration between the police, other security agencies, and the electorate, emphasising the Force’s commitment to maintaining law and order throughout the election period.
Adequate contingency plans, he noted, have been put in place to address any issues that might arise before, during, or after the election.
DIG Alabi also urged citizens to comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2023 (as amended), INEC guidelines, and other applicable laws.
He warned that electoral offenders and troublemakers would be arrested and prosecuted.
