The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has banned Amotekun and other vigilante groups from taking part in the Ondo State governorship election on November 16.
This order was announced in a statement on Sunday by the Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi.
Adejobi stated, “Only federal security agencies and other members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security will be allowed to participate in the election.” This move aims to ensure that only official security personnel are involved, keeping the election free from interference.
To strengthen security during the election, the IGP has directed a large deployment of officers from various specialized units. These units include the Special Intervention Squad, Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, K-9 Unit, and Federal Intelligence teams. Adejobi explained that the police will also use helicopters for aerial patrols and gunboats to monitor waterways, ensuring security across all areas in Ondo.
Egbetokun sent a clear warning to political thugs or anyone planning to disrupt the election. “Those who attempt to jeopardize the peace and security of the state will not go unpunished,” Adejobi added, emphasizing that the police are ready to take firm action against any threats to the voting process.
The Ondo election will see participation from 17 political parties, with voting spread across 18 Local Government Areas, 203 wards, and 3,933 polling units.
