#NigeriaDecides: IGP Deploys Over 11,000 Security Operatives To Edo

The Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, has deployed over 11,000 security operatives to Edo State to ensure peaceful elections.

Naija News reports that the Commissioner of Police in charge of elections in the state, Ben Okolo, made this known to journalists after a security meeting held at the Government House, Benin City, on Friday.

Okolo said the various security agencies are prepared and have deployed men and logistics to different parts of the state to forestall any form of violence during and after the elections.

He said: “We are looking at over 11,200 security operatives. We have made preparations; we have deployed men and logistics and there is a fantastic synergy between all the services.”

Speaking earlier with reporters, the state Governor, Godwin Obaseki has assured that the security agencies are fully prepared to ensure peaceful conduct of Saturday’s presidential and National Assembly elections in the state.

Obaseki said all security agencies in the state are ready to provide safe and secure environment for the elections, urging voters to come out en masse on Saturday to perform their constitutional duties without fear of intimidation or harassment.

He said, “I am quite satisfied with the level of coordination and cooperation among the security agencies. They have made known how they intend to secure each polling unit, ward collation center, local government collation center, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Benin City.

“Our appeal now is for the citizens to come out and fulfill their constitutional duties. It is also time to warn all of those who plan to ferment trouble not to even attempt it because the security agencies are more than ready to deal with anyone who ferments trouble.

“People should come out peacefully, go to their polling units, make sure that they conduct themselves peacefully, go through the accreditation, vote, and leave the polling units until it is time for sorting if they have to be there.

“Citizens should note that from 12 midnight, Saturday 25th, movements will be restricted until 6 pm after elections are over.”