The Nigerian police have issued guidelines for conducting the presidential and national assembly elections on Saturday, February 25, 2023. The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, has ordered the restriction of vehicular movement across all states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory from 12 am to 6 pm on election day. Only officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, electoral observers, ambulances responding to medical emergencies, firefighters, and others on essential services are exempt from the restriction.
The move aims to ensure a safe, secure, and conducive environment for elections. The police have also banned the unauthorised use of sirens, revolving lights, covered number plates, tinted glasses, and all state-established and privately-owned security outfits from participating in election security management. The IG has warned that the Nigerian police would deal decisively with any individual or group that engages in vote buying, vote selling, hate speech, misinformation, disinformation, snatching of ballot boxes, or any other criminal act.
Meanwhile, the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of zone 12, Yahaya Abubakar, comprising Bauchi and Gombe states, has warned officers that the force will not be dragged into their misconduct. According to him, officers found to have shown bias or prejudice over one party, and another has the potential to undermine the entire process. Such conduct would constitute a disciplinary offence capable of investigation and sanctions. The AIG urged police officers to refrain from drawing the Force’s name in the mud and cautioned against the unnecessary application of force and familiarity during the electioneering process.
The police have solicited the support of the media, civil society organisations, and political parties ahead of the smooth conduct of the 2023 elections. The police will release joint operations/election situation room numbers for emergency contact across all states.
In conclusion, the guidelines issued by the Nigerian police aim to guarantee the safety and security of voters, officials, and other stakeholders during the forthcoming elections. The Nigerian police have also implemented measures to ensure a peaceful, free, and fair election, including sanctions for erring officers. All voters, officials, and other stakeholders are urged to cooperate with the police and other security agencies to ensure a successful and credible election.
