Police to deploy 34,587 officers for Anambra governorship election

Usman Baba, inspector-general of police (IGP), says 34,587 officers will be deployed to Anambra for the November 6 governorship election.

Baba spoke at a meeting with police officers on Thursday in Abuja.

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 a safe, secure, and credible electoral process.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

The IGP warned disruptors and political actors “who would want to adopt undemocratic and illegal means to achieve their aspirations” to do away with such plans.

Baba also called on the commissioners of police to strengthen security architecture in their commands.