The Police Service Commission (PSC) monitoring team has arrived in Edo State to oversee police conduct during the upcoming governorship election on Saturday.
The team aims to ensure that police officers maintain neutrality and professionalism throughout the electoral process. This deployment serves as a clear warning to police officers that any misconduct or failure to perform duties will result in disciplinary measures, emphasizing the PSC’s commitment to upholding electoral integrity.
According to a statement by PSC Spokesman Ikechukwu Ani, the team will be led by retired DIG Taiwo Lakanu, a Commissioner in the Commission, and will include other senior staff members.
The monitors will be stationed across the three Senatorial Districts, holding police accountable for their actions before, during, and after the election. Police officers on duty are expected to be impartial, protect both voters and voting materials, ensure a peaceful and orderly voting process, and provide unfettered access for voters to fulfill their civic responsibilities.
DIG Lakanu has instructed the officers to be civil, smart, yet strict in enforcing electoral laws. He emphasized that as the lead agency in internal security, including election security, the police in Edo must demonstrate strong leadership qualities. DIG Lakanu warned that any officer failing to conduct themselves appropriately will face disciplinary action, highlighting that the success of the election largely depends on the effectiveness of the officers on duty.