Edo 2024: IGP deploys 35,000 police officers for guber poll, suspends local security outfit

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has announced that 35,000 police personnel will be deployed to ensure the smooth conduct of the Edo State governorship election on September 21, 2024.

During a stakeholders’ meeting organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Benin City, Egbetokun also confirmed that the Edo Security Network (ESN), a local security group, remains suspended until further notice.

Egbetokun emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force, with support from over 80,000 members of the armed forces and other security agencies, will maintain law and order during the election.

According to him, they will secure all entry and exit points to Edo State, and movement restrictions will be strictly enforced on election day.

The IGP issued a stern warning against criminal activities, including thuggery, ballot box snatching, and other forms of election-related violence.

He stressed that the police would respond decisively to any illegal activities, and any quasi-security entities or non-state actors involved in security functions would be arrested and prosecuted.

On his part, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, reassured stakeholders of the commission’s preparedness for the election.

He stated that INEC would maintain professionalism throughout the process, and arrangements have been made for the transportation of election materials to land and marine locations, ensuring smooth conduct of the poll across Edo State.