Protect INEC Facilities At All Cost, IGP To Security Operatives

Ahead of the 2023 general election, the police boss in Nigeria, Usman Baba has asked security operatives to do all within their powers to protect public facilities and those belonging to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Baba stated this on Friday, December 23, in Abakaliki while addressing personnel of the force as part of activities marking his visit to the state.

Speaking while addressing security operatives, he disclosed that those carrying out attacks on INEC offices use bombs and dynamites.

He said;

“The mode of attack by these hoodlums is complex because they throw bombs and dynamites, among others, from distances.

“We believe that in addition to providing physical security at the INEC offices, you should liaise with its officials to provide offices for our personnel.”

Urging INEC to consider relocating its offices or important materials to safer places, the IGP added that;

“Existing INEC offices across the state should be relocated to safer places if possible but if not, important materials should be relocated to safer places.

“I appreciate all your efforts to protect lives and property in Ebonyi and the various forms of assistance by the state government to the force.”

Baba also asked the state government to allow the police supervise and regulate activities of the state security outfit, Ebubeagu.

He said;

“There is a law establishing the outfit and I am sure that its responsibilities fall under the supervision of the police.

“There is no problem with the outfit wearing uniforms because even community police officers wear uniforms.

“They must, however, have a proper means of identification and it should be reiterated that the task of policing is everyone’s business.”