Leads Patrols Across the State, Addresses Officers and Men of Onitsha Area Command
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, has commenced an operational tour and evaluation exercise to assess the readiness of officers and men of the Command ahead of the forthcoming Anambra State gubernatorial election.
The exercise, which began on Monday, October 20, 2025, in Onitsha, is part of the Command’s comprehensive strategy to ensure adequate security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the election.
CP Orutugu led high-visibility patrols through major roads, flashpoints, and strategic locations within Onitsha and its environs to assess deployment patterns and operational alertness of personnel.
During the visit to the Onitsha Area Command, the Police Commissioner addressed officers and men, emphasizing professionalism, neutrality, and strict adherence to the rule of law throughout the election period.
He reminded officers of their constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property and to safeguard the electoral process without bias or compromise.
The CP urged officers to remain disciplined and avoid any actions that could undermine public confidence in the Police Force during the polls.
According to him, the Command is fully prepared to provide a secure environment before, during, and after the election, noting that no act of violence or misconduct will be tolerated.
CP Orutugu reiterated the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, to free, fair, and credible elections across the country.
He stressed that the IGP’s directives to all state commands are centered on neutrality, professionalism, and firm enforcement of electoral laws.
The Police Commissioner also inspected operational formations, police posts, and checkpoints to ensure personnel were properly equipped and alert to their duties.
He expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness observed but called for continuous vigilance, coordination, and intelligence sharing among officers.
CP Orutugu commended the collaboration between the Police and other security agencies in the state, describing the synergy as vital to achieving peaceful elections.
He appealed to residents to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security personnel, and report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station.
The Commissioner assured that the Police Command remains resolute in its mission to protect the lives and rights of all citizens, irrespective of political affiliation.
He concluded that similar evaluation visits would continue across all Area Commands and Divisions in the state as part of pre-election readiness checks.
