Massive Security Deployment Planned for Kogi Governorship Election

Massive Security Deployment Planned for Kogi Governorship Election

The Commissioner of Police for Kogi State, Bernard Onuoha, has revealed that a significant number of security personnel, amounting to no less than 40,000, will be deployed for the upcoming governorship election scheduled for November 11th.

According to Onuoha, the large number of officers is in response to the off-season election taking place.

While speaking at the state command headquarters in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State, Onuoha emphasized that although he couldn’t provide an exact figure, he was confident that a substantial force of at least 40,000 personnel would be mobilized to maintain security during the election.

The police commissioner expressed concerns about the rising levels of violence in the state leading up to the polls.

He noted that higher authorities had been informed of the situation, and concerted efforts were underway to prevent any threats from becoming a reality.

Onuoha elaborated, saying, “Because the election is an off-season one, we will have enough officers available for mobilization for effective coverage due to the volatile nature of Kogi State elections.

There has been ample evidence that the election will be volatile in some flash point areas already identified.”

Particularly, he highlighted areas in Kogi East, including Olamaboro, Dekina, Ejule, and in the Central region, such as Adavi, Obehira, Obangede, as places of concern, stating that close monitoring would be in place to ensure a peaceful election.

In addition to this, Onuoha has met with the Attah of Igala, who has pledged cooperation both before and after the election.

Conclusion:

The decision to deploy a significant number of security personnel for the governorship election in Kogi State reflects the concern over potential violence and the need to maintain order during the electoral process.

The police commissioner’s statement about the off-season nature of the election suggests that authorities are taking into account the historical volatility of elections in the state and are prepared to manage any potential unrest.

The collaboration with local leaders, such as the Attah of Igala, also underscores the importance of community engagement in maintaining peace and security during elections.

It will be essential to ensure that the security deployment is conducted professionally and that the rights of citizens are upheld throughout the electoral process.