The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has fingered politicians in Edo and Ondo states, over the arming of thugs ahead of the governorship elections in the states.
Speaking through, Frank Mba, the police spokesman on Sunday, the IGP said, following the election security threat assessment reports submitted by the commissioners of police in both states, it is worrisome that the likelihood of violence and possible cross-attack by political opponents during the polls is very high.
“The Election Security Threat Analysis reveals amongst other indicators: arming and movement of political thugs, use of inciting statements during political campaigns, high likelihood of violence and possible cross attack by political opponents, misinformation/disinformation aimed at heating-up of the polity and deliberate efforts at delegitimizing government institutions involved in the electoral processes,” the statement read.
“The IGP, however, warns the politicians and their supporters in Edo and Ondo that the Force would not hesitate to bring the full weight of the law on anyone or group, irrespective of status, that may want to sabotage the security arrangement being emplaced for the elections.”
The IGP called on politicians and their supporters to desist from formenting trouble ahead or during the elections, adding that the police force “will work assiduously with all stakeholders in ensuring a level playing ground for all in the elections.”
More so, the IG added that the force is developing a customised security architecture to protect the people and ensure peaceful elections in both states.
The gubernatorial election in Edo is scheduled for September 19, while that of Ondo is October 10.
