AWKA, NIGERIA — The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 13 Police Headquarters, Ukpo, Dunukofia Local Government Area of Anambra State, AIG Miller Gajere Dantawaye, has directed the Commissioner of Police and all officers deployed for Saturday’s local government elections to maintain the highest level of professionalism, neutrality, and impartiality throughout the electoral process .
The directive, contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Chidera Oha, came just hours before the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission was set to conduct the local government polls across the state’s 21 local government areas. The Zone 13 Police Command oversees police operations in both Anambra and Enugu states .
AIG Dantawaye warned all police personnel against openly or covertly identifying with, supporting, or assisting any political party, candidate, or interest group before, during, or after the elections . The AIG stressed that all officers deployed for the exercise must remain strictly apolitical and non-partisan, discharging their duties in accordance with the law, professional ethics, and the directives of the Nigeria Police Force .
“The AIG warned officers and men against openly or covertly identifying with, supporting, or assisting any political party, candidate, or interest group before, during, or after the elections,” the statement read in part . “The AIG further directed personnel to provide adequate security for all stakeholders and ensure that voters are allowed to exercise their civic rights in a peaceful and orderly environment, without intimidation, harassment, or discrimination” .
Dantawaye emphasised that the credibility of the Police during the electoral process depends largely on the professionalism, discipline, impartiality, and conduct of individual officers . He urged all personnel to remain vigilant, respect the rights of all citizens, and avoid any action capable of compromising the integrity of the electoral process .
The AIG also directed officers to promptly report any security threat or attempt to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections through the appropriate channels . He reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force remained committed to providing a safe, peaceful, and secure environment for the conduct of the local government elections in Anambra State .
The directive comes amid heightened political activity across Anambra State, with various political parties and candidates jostling for control of the 21 local government councils. Local government elections in Nigeria are often characterised by intense competition, and the police have been under pressure to ensure that the process is not marred by violence, intimidation, or electoral malpractice .
The Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission has made preparations to conduct the polls, with security agencies expected to play a critical role in ensuring a smooth and credible exercise. The police have been deployed across the state to provide security at polling units, collation centres, and other sensitive locations .
Political observers have welcomed the AIG’s directive, noting that neutrality and professionalism are essential to building public confidence in the electoral process. They have also called on other security agencies involved in the election to adhere to similar standards of impartiality .
As Anambra residents prepare to cast their votes on Saturday, the police have assured the public that adequate security measures are in place to protect voters, election officials, and observers. The AIG’s message is clear: the police will not tolerate any conduct that undermines the integrity of the electoral process, and all personnel are expected to uphold the law, maintain neutrality, and remain professional throughout the exercise .
