Police deploy 26,000 personnel, gunboats, helicopters ahead of polls

dimeji akinloye

November 22, 2016 5:35 PM

The Police boss warned supporters of political parties to shun violence, noting that anyone found wanting will be severely dealt with.

Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris

The Nigeria Police Force have deployed 26,000 personnel, three helicopters, 12 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and 20 gunboats to

The Inspector-General of Police (IG), Ibrahim Idris, disclosed this on Tuesday, November 22, in Akure, the state capital.

Speaking in a meeting with officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and representatives of the political parties in the state, Idris said the force is in control of the security of lives and properties during and after the polls.

He said: "Twenty-six thousand police officers will be deployed in the state, and five officers will be at each polling unit during the election.

"Also, 20 gunboats will be deployed in the water ways to ensure maximum security along the riverine areas while three helicopters will be patrolling at each of the three senatorial districts of the state."

According to the IG, three commissioners of police will also be on ground in the state for special operations during the election.

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Idris issued a stern warning to security agents who fail to attach their name tags to their uniforms, saying anyone who disobeys the order will be arrested and brought to justice.

He also warned that all security personnel must remain at their designated posts throughout the process.

The police boss also warned the electorate to shun violence before, during and after the election, adding that the public should cooperate with security agencies to ensure a peaceful conduct of the election.

dimeji akinloye