In preparation for the July 12 local government elections in Lagos State, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a strategic deployment of police officers from neighboring states to strengthen security and ensure a peaceful voting process.
The security reinforcement includes personnel equipped with anti-riot gear and essential operational tools. In addition, Marine Police units will be actively patrolling Lagos’ inland waterways to safeguard both urban and riverine communities throughout the election period.
Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, made this known during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja on Tuesday. He assured residents that the command, in collaboration with the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), is fully prepared to deliver a secure and transparent election.
“We are not leaving anything to chance. Officers from other states are being brought in to meet the deployment standards outlined by INEC. Our goal is to provide adequate coverage and quick response in all areas,” CP Jimoh stated.
He also disclosed that a thorough threat assessment has been carried out across all 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), with special attention given to identified flashpoints.
To prevent disruptions, the police may enforce movement restrictions in select locations on election day, with specific directives to be announced in partnership with LASIEC.
CP Jimoh further emphasized that only security agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) are authorized to operate during the election. He warned that unauthorized or local security groups will not be allowed to participate in any form of election-related security activity.
“No quasi-security outfit or non-state actor will be permitted to patrol or provide security during the election. Any group with concerns should report to the nearest police division,” he warned.
He also noted that police presence will be maintained after the elections to manage any celebrations, disputes, or protests that may arise post-voting.
This comprehensive security strategy, the command says, is part of efforts to maintain law and order and safeguard Nigeria’s democratic process in Lagos State.
