Bauchi State Police Command says it has beefed up security to avert possible attacks on the facilities of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The command’s outgoing Commissioner of Police, Umar Sanda in a statement issued by Ahmed Wakil, spokesman for the command, directed area commanders and DPOs of police divisions in the state to intensify efforts toward combating the attack trend on the country’s electoral umpire.
According to him, the order is in line with the directives of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Usman Alkali Baba to ensure adequate security of INEC’s facilities as the 2023 electioneering process gathers momentum.
“The Commissioner of Police Bauchi State Command CP Umar Mamman Sanda has deployed the Command’s operational assets around INEC facilities for surveillance operations to checkmate criminal activities and to provide a conducive atmosphere for hitch-free political processes in the state.
“These deployments are aimed at keeping a beady eye on INEC materials, to prevent any attempt to undermine security around INEC facilities, and to coordinate a timely response to distress calls.
“The CP has equally directed the Divisional police officers and their supervisory Area Commanders, to immediately ensure strategic deployment of officers at INEC offices in their respective Areas of responsibility (AOR) in a bid to bolster security and sustained surveillance around the facilities,” the statement read.
Sanda, while warning political thugs to stay off violence, also ordered a total clamp down on them should they attempt to.
“In the same vein, he further warned political thugs across the state to steer clear and turn away from INEC facilities/materials as the command will not hesitate to decisively deal with any erring persons who decide to dare this warning” the statement added.
