From Abdullahi Inuwa
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has issued a stern warning to officers deployed to Osun State for special election duty, directing them to maintain strict neutrality, professionalism and discipline throughout the assignment.
Addressing the personnel before their departure, CP Azare described election duty as a sensitive national responsibility, stressing that their conduct would reflect directly on the integrity and reputation of the Nigeria Police Force.
The Commissioner warned the officers against partisan activities, voter intimidation, extortion, harassment, unnecessary use of force, drunkenness while on duty, abandonment of duty posts and other acts capable of undermining public confidence in the police.
He also reminded them to strictly comply with the Inspector-General of Police’s Social Media Policy, warning against posting, livestreaming or circulating photographs, videos, comments or operational information that could compromise election security or damage the image of the Force.
One of the major directives issued by CP Azare was that no officer deployed from Akwa Ibom to Osun State should pay for transportation to or from the election assignment.
According to him, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, has already made adequate transportation arrangements for all deployed personnel.
He therefore directed officers to use only officially approved transportation arrangements and warned commanders and personnel against demanding or collecting money under the guise of transportation or movement expenses.
Any attempt to collect such money, he said, must be reported immediately through the appropriate channels.
“You are going to Osun State as representatives of the Nigeria Police Force and of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command. You must remain completely neutral and professional,” Azare told the officers.
“Do not allow yourselves to be used by any political party, candidate or individual. The Inspector-General of Police has made adequate arrangements for your transportation to Osun State and back. No officer should pay for his or her movement.”
The Commissioner further directed the personnel to remain under the command and control of their designated commanders and strictly observe the rules of engagement.
He charged them to protect voters, electoral officials and election materials while ensuring that their actions contribute to a peaceful, credible and violence-free electoral process.
CP Azare warned that any officer found guilty of misconduct, extortion, unauthorised collection of money or disobedience to lawful directives would be held personally accountable and subjected to appropriate disciplinary measures.
He urged the officers to distinguish themselves through courage, discipline, neutrality and exemplary conduct, while wishing them a successful assignment and safe return to Akwa Ibom State.
The directive, issued on August 13, 2026, underscores the Command’s emphasis on professional policing and public confidence as officers take part in the sensitive Osun election assignment.
Press Release Signed By DSP Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command
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