Kogi Police Strengthen Security Ahead of October 17 LG Elections
By Our Correspondent
The Kogi State Police Command has strengthened its security arrangements ahead of the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026, assuring residents of adequate protection before, during and after the exercise.
The command said the measures were aimed at ensuring a peaceful electoral process and safeguarding lives and property across the state.
In a press release issued on Thursday, October 15, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, disclosed that a joint operation order for the Nigeria Police Force and other sister security agencies had been released, with deployed personnel already familiarising themselves with the operational guidelines and their respective responsibilities.
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According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, psc, mni, convened a strategic conference with all Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Heads of Departments (HODs) and Area Commanders to review security preparations for the elections.
The meeting emphasised strict compliance with election security guidelines, professionalism, impartiality and respect for citizens’ rights throughout the electoral process.
Officers were also reminded of the need to remain vigilant, maintain effective supervision and respond promptly to security concerns within their respective areas of responsibility.
As part of efforts to prevent potential security breaches, the command disclosed that intelligence assets had been deployed to identified flashpoints to facilitate early threat detection and timely intervention.
The Commissioner of Police also directed officers to submit hourly situation reports and ensure the prompt reporting of incidents to enhance monitoring, coordination and rapid response to emerging security challenges.
The statement noted that the exercise would also provide an opportunity to strengthen operational coordination and inter-agency collaboration ahead of future electoral engagements.
The command urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, conduct themselves peacefully, obey lawful directives and refrain from any act capable of disrupting the electoral process.
Members of the public were further encouraged to report suspicious movements and emergencies through the designated emergency contact numbers: 07038329084 and 08152195982.
Reassuring the electorate of its preparedness, the command stated that all necessary measures were being taken to safeguard lives and property before, during and after the elections.
It also urged voters to exercise their civic responsibilities peacefully and without fear, while reiterating its commitment to maintaining law and order throughout the electoral exercise.
DemocracyNewslineNewspaper October 16th, 2026
