By Damilola Origbemisuyi, Akure
The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Abayomi Oladipupo, has warned political party’s supporters against involving in any forms of violence before, during and after the November 16 governorship election in the state.
Oladipupo said anybody caught in the act of violence or destroying of posters and bill boards of political opponents would face the consequences.
The CP stated this at a One-day peace and security summit ahead of the state governorship election coming up in November. The summit, which was organised by the state police command in collaboration with Kimpact Development Initiative and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, was held in Akure, the state capital.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami.
According to the statement, the initiative was aimed at ensuring a seamless and peaceful electoral process in the state. He urged all political parties and their candidates to prioritize peace, stressing that the pursuit of leadership should not compromise communal bonds.
The statement read, “The CP warned against actions such as the destruction of campaign materials and the disruption of opponents’ events. The youth were specifically called upon to resist being used as instruments of political violence, with the reminder that all actions carry consequences.”
The police boss also emphasized the police’s role as the lead agency in internal security, outlining comprehensive security plans developed in partnership with other safety and security agencies. He also assured stakeholders of the joint agencies’ commitment to preserving law and order throughout the election period.
Abayomi reaffirmed the commitment of the police command and other security agencies in upholding high standards of professionalism, ensuring a fair and impartial election process.
