Acting IGP Establishes Elections Security Unit

Posted by African Examiner Latest Headlines, News Tuesday, September 16th, 2014

Ganiyu Nasirudeen

As part of efforts to strengthen the security of the electoral processes in the country, ensure sustainable democracy and national development, the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Suleiman Abba, has approved the establishment of Elections Security Planning and Monitoring Unit in the Force.

The unit which is headed by a Commissioner of Police in the Operations department will be responsible for development of frameworks, processes, strategies and systems necessary for election security, planning, monitoring and management.

According to a statement issued Tuesday by the Public Relations Officer, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, Ag. CP Emmanuel Ojukwu, other duties of the special unit include: conducting elections security threat assessment, coordinating election security training, developing and implementing guidelines for the conduct of Police officers engaged in election duties.

The statement indicated that it would also collaborate with the strategic stakeholders, Community-based and Civil Society Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and International Development Partners in ensuring credible elections” within a secured democratic space in Nigeria”.

IGP Abba assured the general public of the Force and other security agencies resolve to support effort to deliver hitch-free elections in 2015 and beyond.

The police Boss also called on Nigerians, including the political class, strategic partners, corporate establishments and other stakeholders to join in drive to actualize the set objectives.