The Anambra State Police Command has assured residents that the ongoing bye-election in the state is being conducted under a calm and secure atmosphere.
In a statement released on Saturday, the command said its joint patrol teams, led by the police, have been able to promptly manage and contain all reported incidents so far.
The joint operation involves operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
Police authorities confirmed that contrary to speculation of unrest in some parts of the state, the situation remains peaceful and under firm control of security agencies.
The command emphasized that officers and men deployed for the duty are strategically positioned to protect lives and property, as well as to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the election duty, AIG Godwin Eze, appealed to voters, political parties and stakeholders to remain law-abiding.
He advised individuals and groups with grievances to channel their complaints to the designated Election Desk Officers for proper investigation and redress.
According to him, security operatives are committed to treating all credible reports with fairness, diligence and professionalism.
Eze, however, warned against any attempt by individuals or groups to take the law into their own hands, describing such actions as unacceptable.
The police command also urged members of the public to cooperate with security personnel deployed across the state.
Residents were further advised to disregard unverified information or rumours capable of creating panic or tension during the polls.
The command stressed that the collaborative security arrangement remains robust and is working effectively to ensure a peaceful electoral exercise.
It noted that its men remain vigilant and are closely monitoring developments to forestall any attempt to disrupt the process.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who signed the statement, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to transparency and professionalism.
He assured that updates on the bye-election would continue to be communicated to the public as the exercise progresses.