by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
Just days before the Anambra State governorship election, the state police headquarters in Awka was heavily fortified, with thousands of well-equipped officers on high alert.
The entrance to the command was lined with armoured vehicles, bomb detectors, and other sophisticated equipment, while air, marine, and tactical units were activated to prevent potential flashpoints and ensure security across all 21 local government areas.
IGP’s Directives and Preparations
Following directives from Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetukon, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in charge of the election, Benjamin Okolo, joined top officers from various units to plan comprehensive security measures for the polls.
The next day, checkpoints were established along major highways, armoured personnel carriers stationed in key towns, and tactical units deployed visibly across the state. Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu had earlier carried out clearance operations in areas known for potential violence, efforts later praised by DIG Benjamin Nwokolo of the Force Investigation Department. He confirmed that anticipated hotspots remained calm, reflecting the effectiveness of the pre-election security strategy.
Airwing Dominance
The police airwing, led by Commissioner Martin Nwogoh, maintained continuous aerial surveillance, with helicopters crisscrossing the state to monitor flashpoints and boundaries. CP Nwogoh assured that the air units could respond swiftly to any crisis and maintained constant communication with ground teams.
A tour of Awka revealed a visible show of force, with both conventional and non-conventional police patrolling, while heavily armed units moved strategically through the streets, sending a strong deterrent message to potential troublemakers.
Election Day Operations
By 7 a.m. on election day, DIG Okolo, AIG Akor Gabriel, CP Orutugu, and other senior officers had deployed across the state, covering volatile and inland towns alike, from Okija to Ihiala, Onitsha to Aguleri/Umuleri, ensuring voters felt safe while maintaining order.
Highlighting the success of pre-election measures, DIG Okolo noted that Ihiala, a known flashpoint for IPOB activity, remained peaceful due to prior clearance operations. Security coverage was phased, from the movement of election materials to polling units, voting, and collation centers.
He added that security arrangements would continue after results, only standing down on IGP orders, and praised officers for their professional conduct throughout the process.
Surveillance and Deterrence
DIG Okolo emphasized that air and drone surveillance, combined with ground presence, served as a strong deterrent and contributed to the overall peaceful conduct of the election. He also clarified that police did not arrest vote-buyers, noting that financial offenses fall under EFCC jurisdiction, while police enforce laws broadly.
Public Response
Voters expressed satisfaction with the security. A woman selling food at a polling booth said the calm atmosphere allowed a smooth election, adding that she voted APGA for the party, not individuals. Similarly, youth leader Tony Agu urged other Igbo states to emulate Anambra’s approach, stressing that voters supported APGA in honor of late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
A total of 27 Commissioners of Police, alongside Deputy and Assistant Commissioners, supervised all local government areas, INEC offices, and other strategic locations to guarantee a peaceful, credible, and well-coordinated election.