By Izunna Okafor, Awka
As part of sustained efforts toward ensuring a hitch-free and credible governorship election in Anambra State, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, has commenced an operational assessment of officers’ readiness across Police formations in the state.
The exercise, which forms a critical part of the Command’s strategic pre-election security plan, began on Monday, October 20, 2025, with the CP’s visit to the Onitsha Area Command. The Police Commissioner personally led a high-visibility patrol across major routes and flashpoints within the commercial city to evaluate the alertness, preparedness, and operational efficiency of officers ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial poll.
During the visit, CP Orutugu addressed officers and men of the Command, emphasizing professionalism, discipline, neutrality, and strict adherence to the rule of law in the discharge of their duties before, during, and after the election. He reminded personnel that the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force must be maintained at all times and that the trust of the public must be earned through fairness and transparency.
The Police Commissioner also reaffirmed the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, to ensuring free, fair, and credible elections across the federation. He urged officers to demonstrate the highest level of responsibility in line with the IGP’s directive, stressing that the Force remains non-partisan and will act strictly within the confines of the law.
As part of the exercise, CP Orutugu inspected several operational bases, checkpoints, and police posts within the area to ensure that deployed personnel were alert, well-equipped, and properly briefed on their mandates. He commended the level of coordination observed among officers and applauded their commitment to duty, describing it as reassuring ahead of the crucial election.
The CP equally expressed appreciation for the collaboration of sister security agencies and other stakeholders, noting that their sustained partnership with the Police has been instrumental in maintaining peace and order in the state. He called for continued synergy throughout the election period to ensure a peaceful process.
While reiterating the Command’s zero tolerance for misconduct or abuse of power, CP Orutugu urged residents of Anambra State to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security operatives, and promptly report suspicious activities or persons to the nearest police station. He assured that the Command remains fully committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all voters, candidates, and election officials in the state.
