Anambra poll: Security threat forces Police to deploy 34,587 operatives

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Usman Alkali Baba, said the outcome of election security threat analysis conducted by the Force Intelligence Bureau for the November 6 governorship election in Anambra State, has necessitated the deployment of 34,587 operatives for the polls.

Baba made the declaration on Thursday in Abuja at a meeting with police officers from the rank of Commissioner and above.

The IGP said the deployment would consist of conventional police officers, Police Mobile Force, the Counter Terrorism Unit, Special Forces, Explosive Ordnance Unit, Force Intelligence Bureau, INTERPOL, Special Protection Unit and a medical team.

He said three helicopters would be deployed for aerial surveillance while detachments of Marine Police operatives would also be deployed to ensure safe, secure and credible electoral process.

Baba said the deployments followed the outcome of election security threat analysis conducted by the Force Intelligence Bureau.

“Based on the outcome of the analysis, we have developed a strategic election security operation plan which will involve the mobilisation of 34,587 police personnel.

“Let me use this opportunity to assure all citizens and stakeholders, including the international community of our determination to work with other security agencies to stabilise the prevailing situation in Anambra.

“The idea is to create a conducive and enabling environment that will guarantee peaceful conduct of the election.

“We are also committed to partnering with INEC within the dictates of the Electoral Act to deliver a credible election in Anambra,” he said.

The IGP had on Wednesday assured the nation of the commitment of the Force to securing the public space and upholding the democratic values ahead of the November 6 Anambra State Gubernatorial Election.

The IGP gave the assurance during a strategic meeting held at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, with Commanders of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) Squadrons in the country, as part of efforts to specifically contain the activities of criminal elements in the South-East and particularly guarantee a safe and secure environment for the elections.

The IGP noted that the Nigeria Police Force in the coming days will be implementing a robust national security action plan to refocus the internal security dynamics of the country in addition to securing the electoral processes in the Anambra State Gubernatorial election including the protection of personnel and materials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and critical national infrastructure.

The IGP noted that the Police Mobile Force, will as usual, form a critical component of the operational plan, to deter any subversive elements that could threaten or disrupt the smooth conduct of the election.