The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has approved a two-day intensive training programme for personnel earmarked for deployment during the 2023 governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Wednesday.
According to the statement, the training is intended to improve the personnel’s ability to maintain peace, order, and security during the electoral process.
He added that to protect the safety of voters, electoral officials, candidates, and the general public during the off-season elections, the Nigerian Police Force will work closely with other relevant security agencies, electoral partners, and the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Also, the IG urged political parties and candidates to conduct their campaigns and activities peacefully, by democratic principles and the rule of law.
The statement partly read, “During the electioneering process in anticipation of the gubernatorial elections slated for November 11, 2023, in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states, the Inspector General of Police, Ag. IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, NPM, PhD, has approved an intensive two-day training program for the dedicated police personnel earmarked for deployment during the elections.
“This training initiative is designed to bolster their capabilities in ensuring peace, order, and security during the electoral proceedings. The scheduled training program will be held in Bayelsa State from October 25th to 26th, 2023; in Kogi State from October 27th to 28th, 2023; and in Imo State from October 25th to 26th, 2023.
“The Nigerian Police Force will closely collaborate with other pertinent security agencies, electoral stakeholders, and the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure the safety of voters, electoral officials, candidates, and the general public during the off-season elections. The IGP concurrently appeals to political parties and candidates to conduct their campaigns and activities peacefully, abiding by the tenets of democracy and the sanctity of the rule of law.
“The Inspector General of Police has assured that the police remains steadfast in its commitment to providing a secure environment for the citizens of Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States to exercise their democratic rights and to safeguard the success of the gubernatorial elections.”
He implored all residents and stakeholders to extend their full cooperation to the Police and other law enforcement agents deployed for the election duty to achieve a peaceful and transparent electoral process.
