(DDM) – The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the redeployment and reshuffling of Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) ahead of Saturday’s Area Council elections.
The directive was confirmed by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, who stated that the redeployment has already been implemented in compliance with the order.
According to a statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the action is part of a broader security arrangement aimed at strengthening operational effectiveness and ensuring professionalism before, during, and after the elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026.
The statement explained that the redeployment was carried out on the directive of the Inspector-General of Police to reinforce confidence in the electoral process and enhance neutrality within the command structure.
While complying with the directive, CP Dantawaye charged the affected officers to discharge their duties with the highest level of professionalism, impartiality, and dedication. He emphasized that the FCT Police Command remains committed to safeguarding the electoral process and guaranteeing a free, fair, and credible election.
As part of the security measures, the police announced a restriction of movement across the FCT beginning from 8:00 p.m. on February 20, 2026, until 6:00 p.m. on February 21, 2026. The restriction, however, will not apply to essential service providers and election officials who are directly involved in the conduct of the polls.
Residents of the FCT were urged to remain peaceful and law-abiding throughout the election period. The Command also encouraged citizens to actively participate in the democratic process by exercising their civic responsibilities at the polls.
In addition, the police called on members of the public to stay vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons or activities. Emergency contact lines were provided to facilitate swift communication with security operatives.
The redeployment and other precautionary steps reflect heightened security awareness ahead of the Area Council elections, which are considered significant within the political landscape of the capital territory. Authorities maintain that the measures are designed to ensure public safety and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
