As Lagos State prepares for the forthcoming local government elections, I wish to assure the public that the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with all relevant agencies, is fully prepared to ensure a peaceful, free, and credible electoral process across the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas.
Over the past several days, we have held a series of strategic meetings with the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) and other stakeholders to fine-tune our operational plans and deployment strategies. I am pleased to announce that the Operation Order has been finalized and released. Deployment of personnel—designated as Election Ambassadors—is already underway across all identified flashpoints and voting locations.
To strengthen our efforts, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, has approved the deployment of additional manpower to Lagos from contiguous states. While I will not disclose exact figures for operational security reasons, I can confirm that the reinforcement involves thousands of personnel and includes critical riot control and logistical equipment. This is a significant boost to our existing capacity and will allow for seamless policing of the electoral process.
We have also brought all relevant federal security and safety agencies on board through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES). In addition to two coordination meetings held at our Command Headquarters, we have developed a joint deployment framework that ensures all critical areas are effectively covered.
Although the Lagos State Police Command already has one of the largest operational strengths in the country, we are not taking any chances. Our request for reinforcements stems from the need to meet the recommended deployment guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the effective management of electoral activities.
We have concluded extensive threat assessments and identified areas of potential concern. These are already being addressed with proactive measures. The Marine Police Unit has been mobilized to patrol Lagos’ extensive coastline, including both urban and rural riverine communities. All critical infrastructure and sensitive zones have been placed under surveillance and protection.
With over six million registered voters who have collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in Lagos, we are encouraging all eligible citizens to come out en masse and vote for the candidates of their choice without fear or intimidation. Our strategic security plan is divided into three phases: pre-election deployment and surveillance, election-day security, and post-election monitoring and response.
While the election day itself is important, we are equally prepared for potential challenges that may arise before and after voting. All 15 political parties participating in this election have been actively campaigning, and we commend them for the peaceful conduct so far. However, we are not oblivious to the possibility of overzealous celebrations or disruptive reactions to election outcomes. As such, our deployment will remain in place for a full week to manage the election aftermath and ensure normalcy is restored immediately.
We are also finalizing consultations on whether or not there will be movement restrictions on election day. Further announcements in this regard will be made after our scheduled security coordination meetings this week.
I must also clarify that only federal security and safety agencies that are part of the Inter-Agency Committee will be permitted to participate in election security operations. Quasi-security outfits or local vigilante groups are not authorized to be involved in any election-related activity. If they have concerns or intelligence, they should channel it to the appropriate authorities for action. Unauthorized deployment by non-state actors will not be tolerated.
Additionally, a fully equipped Election Control Room will be operational at the Lagos State Command Headquarters in Ikeja. This hub will be overseen by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations and will include representatives from the military and all relevant agencies. This setup ensures rapid response and real-time coordination in the event of any incident.
Finally, we appreciate the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission for its cooperation and commitment to a transparent and credible process. The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its duty to provide an atmosphere of peace, safety, and neutrality before, during, and after the elections.
To all residents and stakeholders: play by the rules, respect the democratic process, and remember that we are here to protect your rights, your votes, and your future.