The Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali, has re-assured that the police would work in partnership with sister security agencies to ensure peaceful conduct of the 2023 general election.
He spoke at a security policy dialogue entitled “2022 General Election: Insecurity as a threat to constitutional succession” organised by Cleen Foundation in partnership with Ford Foundation on Wednesday in Abuja.
Represented by DCP Basil Idegwu, head of Police Federal Operation, the IG said the police was working to sustain the noticeable improvements recorded in the conduct of security personnel at the Osun, Ekiti and Anambra off-cycle election, ahead of 2023 general election.
“We have received great commendation both from international observers and local observers on the conduct and role of security agencies at the Ekiti and Osun election.
“This shows the readiness of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to ensure a credible election come 2023.
“The police are reaching out to all security stakeholders to share actionable intelligence, carryout joint and various strategic planning and execution of operations which have been yielding dividends at the moment.
“However, it is imperative to note that in matters of security, every citizen is a stakeholder and that is why this initiative organised to dialogue is highly commended.
“Because all hands must be on deck to ensure that the current insecurity is fought to stand still in the country,” he said.
Baba said that using the successes recorded in Edo, Ondo and Anambra election, the police would ensure peaceful conduct of 2023 poll.
He said that in strengthening the security response mechanism, the police have put in place series of trainings for its officers and men across the country.
He said that the training included training on election security and others, to ensure that citizens express their franchise without fear of molestation or intimidation by criminal elements at the 2023 poll.
Mr Gad Peter, executive director, Cleen Foundation, urged the police and other security agencies to develop a comprehensive roadmap on public safety and security towards the general election.