By Augustine Ehikioya
For hitch free electoral process, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has convened a crucial meeting with key stakeholders in Kogi State on Wednesday November 8, 2023 for the 11th November off-cycle gubernatorial elections holding in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States.
The meeting, which was held in the state capital, brought together various stakeholders including political leaders, representatives of political parties, civil society organizations, electoral officials, traditional and religious leaders, youth leaders, and security agencies.
A statement by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, has disclosed this. It was obtained by Security Watch Africa (SWA).
It said “The primary goal of this gathering was to engage in constructive dialogue, share information, and strategize on measures to guarantee a free, fair, credible, and peaceful electoral process in the state.”
The IGP also encouraged political leaders to play a significant role in maintaining the peace by promoting a culture of non-violence among their supporters and ensuring that the electoral process is conducted without any form of intimidation or coercion.
During the meeting, the IGP reacted to a trending video of an incident in Anyigba where it was alleged that some armed men attacked the residence of one of the key officials in one of the parties.
He charged the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to take over the case for thorough investigation in order to ascertain all parties concerned, their respective levels of involvement and to ensure justice by all means.
The Inspector General of Police also reiterated that the Force is committed to impartiality and neutrality throughout the electoral process and will “take decisive action against any person who engages in any form of misconduct or violence.”
He also charged candidates and their followers to embrace peace as the Police and other Security Agents would not spare anyone caught fomenting troubles during the electioneering process.
