Remain in Edo till further notice, IG orders officers

The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has directed police officers from the Tactical Squad and Intelligence Unit deployed for duties during the Edo State governorship election to remain in the state.

The PUNCH reports that Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress polled 291,667 votes to defeat the Peoples Democratic Party’s Asue Ighodalo, who came second with 247,274 votes, and the Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata, who emerged third with 22,763 votes.

The outcome of the election conducted on September 21 had been widely rejected by candidates and some election monitoring organisations.

However, in a statement on Wednesday by the Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, the IG said the special squads should continue to stay in the state till further notice.

Egbetokun noted that their continued stay in the state was to fortify the security architecture in place in the state.

The statement partly read, “The Inspector General of Police assures members of the public of steadfastness in the commitment of the Nigeria Police to ensuring the safety and security of the people of Nigeria

“The IGP has therefore directed tactical squads and intelligence contingents to remain in the state to continue to fortify security measures until further notice.

:This proactive measure aims to maintain stability and public safety throughout the state.”

Egbetokun also said those arrested for electoral offences during the election would be prosecuted by the Independent National Electoral Commission, adding that the police would try those apprehended for criminal offences.

He added, “All arrested persons for electoral offences will be prosecuted by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC while those arrested for other criminal offences will be arraigned before the court on completion of investigations.

The Nigeria Police Force reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting democracy and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria. We will continue to strive for excellence in our duties, upholding the principles of fairness, justice, and accountability.”

Egbetokun also condoled with the families of the five policemen who died in a fatal car accident in Kano State.

He said, “In another development, the Inspector-General of Police commiserates with the Kano State Command, families and friends of the five policemen who lost their lives in a ghastly motor accident on Tuesday at Karfi village in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State, along Zaria-Kano Expressway, while returning to Kano after the Edo State election duties. The IGP prays for the repose of their souls.”