As preparations intensify ahead of the November 8 Anambra Governorship Election, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, minps, PhD, has sustained his statewide peace-building advocacy, reaffirming the Police Command’s readiness to guarantee safety before, during, and after the polls.
The Police Commissioner, on Saturday, October 25, 2025, visited Ogidi, headquarters of Idemili North Local Government Area, in continuation of his engagement tour aimed at strengthening community cooperation and building confidence in the security architecture of the state.
CP Orutugu’s mission to Ogidi underscored his belief that credible elections can only thrive in an environment of trust, transparency, and mutual respect among citizens, community leaders, and law enforcement agencies.
His first stop was the Palace of His Royal Majesty, Igwe Uzo Alexander Onyido, the Ezechuamagha of Ogidi Kingdom, where he was received in a colourful traditional ceremony attended by community elders, youth leaders, and women representatives.
Addressing the royal father and his council, CP Orutugu praised the traditional institution for its continuous role in sustaining moral leadership, promoting unity, and fostering peace across the grassroots.
He said traditional rulers remain key partners in ensuring violence-free elections, noting that their influence over youths and community structures makes them indispensable in curbing political thuggery and criminal tendencies.
“The role of our royal fathers in guiding their communities cannot be overstated,” CP Orutugu stated. “They help nurture peace, discourage violence, and ensure that our youths are not misled into political misconduct.”
The Police boss appealed to the monarch and community leaders to intensify public awareness on peaceful participation and to encourage residents to promptly report any suspicious movement or activities that could threaten security.
In his remarks, Igwe Uzo Alexander Onyido commended CP Orutugu for his leadership style and proactive measures toward a peaceful election season. He expressed delight at the visit, describing it as a mark of respect and collaboration between the Police and the traditional institution.
The royal father pledged the full cooperation of the Palace and the people of Ogidi, assuring the Commissioner that the community would continue to support initiatives that promote peace, security, and credible elections.
He also admonished political actors, youths, and interest groups to maintain calm and uphold the spirit of brotherhood throughout the election period, stressing that peace is a priceless heritage that must not be traded for political gain.
Following the palace visit, CP Orutugu proceeded to the Ogidi Area Command Headquarters, where he held a closed-door meeting with Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and Heads of Tactical Units operating under the command.
During the meeting, the CP reiterated the non-partisan commitment of the Nigeria Police Force, reminding officers that their mandate is to secure lives, protect property, and safeguard the democratic process — not to influence electoral outcomes.
“Our responsibility is to protect lives, property, and the integrity of the electoral process,” he emphasized. “We must remain neutral, disciplined, and uphold the values of professionalism and fairness at all times.”
He urged officers to remain vigilant and courteous in their interactions with the public, warning that any act of misconduct or compromise during the election would not be tolerated.
Later, at a broader stakeholders’ forum held at the Area Command premises, the Commissioner met with the Chairman of Idemili North Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Stanley Nkwoka, vigilante operatives, Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) members, and Presidents-General of various communities.
The interactive session focused on intelligence sharing, coordinated community-based security interventions, and the importance of multi-agency collaboration in deterring electoral malpractices.
Stakeholders commended the Command for its openness and continuous engagement, describing the Police Commissioner’s approach as confidence-inspiring. They pledged full support for all peace and security measures being implemented across the state.
They also resolved to intensify grassroots sensitization, promote non-violence campaigns, and ensure that no element within their communities is allowed to disrupt the peace during the election period.
In his closing remarks, CP Orutugu reassured Ndi Anambra that adequate deployments, surveillance operations, and rapid response units have already been activated to guarantee law and order across all 21 Local Government Areas of the State.
He appealed to residents to remain peaceful, avoid being influenced by individuals or groups bent on causing trouble, and cooperate with security agencies to ensure a smooth electoral process.
“The peace and stability of Anambra State is our collective responsibility,” the Commissioner declared. “Together, we can safeguard democracy and ensure that the will of the people prevails.”
He reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, transparency, and respect for the rights of all citizens, urging continuous partnership between the Police and the people in sustaining a safe and prosperous Anambra.
