IGP bans Amotekun and vigilante corps from participating in Ondo election

Ahead of the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has barred the Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun, and other vigilante groups from participating in election security. 

In a statement issued on Sunday by Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, the police chief emphasized that only federal security agencies will be involved in securing the election.

To ensure a peaceful election, the IGP has directed the deployment of officers from various specialized police units, including the Special Intervention Squad, Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, and K-9 Unit. Additionally, aerial patrols will be conducted with police helicopters, while gunboats will patrol waterways and riverine areas to maintain security across all terrains.

The IGP reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to a secure and orderly election across all 18 local government areas, 203 wards, and 3,933 polling units in Ondo State. “The deployment will see officers from various specialized units working alongside other security agencies in strict adherence to the Electoral Act, 2022, to ensure that all measures align with fairness, transparency, and order,” Adejobi stated.

Emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for electoral disruption, the IGP warned that any political thugs or individuals attempting to incite violence will “face the full force of the law.” According to Adejobi, “those who attempt to jeopardize the peace and security of the state will not go unpunished.”