2019: IG warns policemen against partisan politics

*Idris urges CPs to tackle thuggery, intimidation, violence

INSPECTOR-General (IG) Ibrahim Idris has warned policemen against partisan politics, following the beginning of political activities ahead of the 2019 general elections.

He urged Police Commissioners (CPs) not to tolerate any form of political thuggery, intimidation, demonstration of violent conduct and other acts that could lead to political clashes.

The Police boss also directed CPs to arrest and immediately prosecute any party member or supporters in possession of firearms or dangerous weapons during political campaigns and rallies in their respective states.

Force spokesman Ag. DCP Jimoh Moshood stated this in Abuja yesterday while highlighting security arrangement for campaigns and rallies.

Moshood said: “Consequent on the release of the time table and schedule of activities for 2019 general elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the commencement of campaign by political parties for the presidential and National Assembly elections, which has taken off on November 18, 2018 and governorship and state houses of assembly elections starting on December 1, 2018, the IGP Ibrahim Idris has directed the implementation of a robust and elaborate security arrangement and measures to ensure adequate security and safety for the electioneering campaigns and rallies throughout the country.

Read also: Police arraign fake tailor for allegedly swindling woman of N50,000

“The Inspector General of Police has equally warned all Commissioners of Police in all the state commands and the FCT and other senior officers that have one role or the other to play in the implementation of the security arrangement for the 2019 general elections not to engage in political partisanship or bias but to remain focus and provide security for all throughout the period.

“The Commissioners of Police in the 36 state commands and the FCT and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors General of Police in the  12 Zonal Commands have also been directed by the IGP to protect and safeguard all venues of campaigns, rallies and other INEC approved electioneering activities of all Political Parties throughout the Country from now on till the end of the stipulated campaign period for the 2019 General Elections.”

The Police also said it has conducted threat assessments, adding that adequate deployment has been made to flash points.