The Deputy Inspector General of Police, Frank Mba, has confirmed that all VIP protection services and police orderlies will be suspended 48 hours before the upcoming Edo State governorship election.
Mba made this announcement during the Edo Security Town Hall meeting on Sunday, emphasising the need to ensure a secure electoral process.
According to Mba, only Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy will retain their police security detail during the election, but even this protection will be limited.
“The governor and deputy governor will maintain personal security, but these officers will not be allowed to accompany them to the electoral ground,” Mba stated.
The police will also place particular focus on the state’s borders in a bid to prevent any unlawful activities that might affect the integrity of the election.
This heightened security approach underscores the importance placed on the election, which is slated for next Saturday.
The Edo governorship race is expected to be a closely contested affair, with notable candidates including Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party emerging as frontrunners.
In a related development, Governor Obaseki had, earlier on Saturday, sparked controversy by declaring that the election would be a “do-or-die” event.
This declaration, coupled with his refusal to sign a peace accord aimed at ensuring a peaceful election, has raised concerns about potential tensions in the days leading up to the poll.
Furthermore, political figures like Adams Oshiomhole, senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, and other VIPs will be without their usual police escorts during the election.
This policy reflects the commitment of the Nigerian police to ensure a level playing field and to prevent any undue influence or intimidation during the voting process.
As the election day approaches, all eyes remain on Edo State, with stakeholders calling for peaceful and credible elections that reflect the will of the people.
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