2025 Guber Poll: Anambra CP Warns Local Vigilante to Steer Clear of Election Security

By Praise Chinecherm

Anambra Police Commissioner, Mr. Ikioye Orutugu has declared that local Vigilantes would not be part of security operatives that will police the November 8 governorship election.

The CP stated this during his visits to Ihiala Area Command and Oraifite Divisions as part of his continued statewide strategic engagements on election patriotism and community security awareness.

During the engagements, the CP interacted with stakeholders including President General of Ihiala Community, Commander Agunechemba Vigilante Group, the Youth Chairman, a representative of the Local Government Chairman and officers and men of the Police Command operating in the respective jurisdictions.

In Ihiala Area Command, Orutugu
expressed optimism about the security structural deficit, which he said had come to an end.

He commended the good people of Ihiala and Oraifite for their courage, civic responsibility, and continued cooperation with security agencies.

“The communities have demonstrated resilience and collective resolve by refusing to allow criminal elements to influence political participation or disrupt community stability.

While in Oraifite, the CP commended the cooperation of other security agencies towards the Police in the area and reiterated that the Police cannot take the glory alone for the safety in the area.

He reaffirmed that the Police remained committed to safeguarding lives and property and ensuring the election was conducted in a peaceful, secure and credible atmosphere.

He emphasized that patriotism during elections means rejecting intimidation, resisting fear-based narratives and participating freely in the democratic process.

Addressing officers and men under the Area Commands, the CP charged them to maintain discipline, professionalism, courtesy and high operational standards.

He stressed that policing must remain people-centered, intelligence-driven and rooted in the protection of human rights.

“The Joint Security framework remains active and will be reinforced and expanded across communities to prevent criminal infiltration and sustain peace before, during, and after the election.

“We call on Ndi Anambra to remain law-abiding, vigilant and proactive in providing credible information that can support ongoing security operations.

“Anyone with useful information is encouraged to report to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency contact lines on 112 or 07039194332 for a prompt response,” he added.