The Nigeria Police Force has moved to reassure residents of the Federal Capital Territory of a safe and orderly environment during the ongoing council elections. This assurance comes on the heels of what the authorities described as a massive deployment of personnel across the various polling units in the nation’s capital.
Abayomi Shogunle, the Commissioner of Police in charge of Election Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation at the Force Headquarters, spoke to Reports during an observation patrol. Accompanied by the FCT Commissioner of Police, Shogunle explained that the security teams are currently on the ground to monitor the situation in real-time and ensure that everything aligns with the strategic plans laid out by the high command.
According to the police chief, the heavy presence of officers is a direct implementation of the operational order approved by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. Shogunle noted that the saturation of security personnel across the FCT serves two main goals: ensuring the exercise concludes without any hitches and acting as a clear warning to anyone who might be considering disrupting the peace.
As accreditation and voting progressed, Shogunle observed that the atmosphere remained calm and orderly. He emphasized that the visible security presence should not be a cause for alarm but rather a reason for confidence. He urged residents to come out in large numbers to exercise their civic rights, insisting that there is no reason for any form of fear or apprehension.
Addressing the issue of movement, the police clarified that while voters are encouraged to walk to their nearby polling units, certain vehicular restrictions remain in place. Aside from security agencies and medical emergencies, only those on essential duties—such as media personnel and accredited electoral observers—are permitted to move around in vehicles. This measure is intended to keep the streets clear and the polling areas manageable.
When asked about the possibility of late-hour disruptions as the day winds down, the Commissioner was firm in his response. He stated that the police have already made adequate provisions to tackle any unforeseen challenges that might arise before the polls officially close. For now, the message from the authorities is clear: the FCT is secure, and the democratic process is being closely guarded.
