The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, hosted the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN), and his delegation at the Force Headquarters in Abuja to formalise a strategic roadmap aimed at ensuring peaceful and credible elections across the country.
The high-level meeting, attended by members of the Force Management Team and senior INEC officials, focused on strengthening the nation’s electoral security framework ahead of the upcoming Ekiti and Osun off-cycle governorship elections, pending bye-elections, and the 2027 General Elections.
Among the INEC officials present were the National Commissioner for the North-Central Region, Professor Sanni Muhammed; National Commissioner for the North-East Region, Mrs. Jamila Abubakar Malafa; National Commissioner, Dr. Baba Bila; National Commissioner for the South-South Region, Rear Admiral Rhoda Gumus; and National Commissioner for the South-West Region, Professor Kunle Ajayi.
Speaking during the meeting, Professor Amupitan stressed the importance of proactive security arrangements to safeguard the electoral process amid prevailing national security concerns.
He called for specialised training for security personnel and emphasised the need to create a safe environment that would enable Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) to participate freely in elections without fear or intimidation.
Responding, IGP Disu described the visit as timely and crucial to preserving democratic stability in the country.
He disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force has already activated a series of strategic measures to secure the electoral process, including precision intelligence mapping to curb political violence, cult-related activities, and voter intimidation.
According to the police chief, the Force is also implementing robust operational plans for the safe movement of electoral materials and personnel, while enhancing communication and collaboration with other security agencies to ensure seamless coordination during elections.
He further noted that the Police are intensifying efforts to counter misinformation and disinformation capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process.
IGP Disu assured the INEC delegation that officers deployed for election duties would strictly adhere to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act.
He revealed that personnel are currently undergoing rigorous training on election rules of engagement, human rights protection, and professional conduct.
“As the lead agency in election security management, the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to maintaining public order and enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against professional misconduct,” the IGP said.
He warned that any officer found compromising the credibility of the polls or engaging in misconduct would face disciplinary action in line with the law.
In his closing remarks, the IGP reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all eligible voters, with special attention to vulnerable groups, including IDPs and PWDs.
He also pledged the full support of the Nigeria Police Force to INEC while calling for stronger collaboration among the Commission, security agencies, and other stakeholders to guarantee peaceful and successful elections nationwide.
