The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has banned the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun) and Vigilante Corps from participating in the upcoming Ondo governorship election on November 16, 2024.

In a statement released on Sunday by Force spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi, the IG noted the deployment of various specialised police units to ensure a peaceful election, including the Special Intervention Squad, Police Mobile Force, and K-9 Unit.

He added that aerial patrols and gunboat security would be in place to cover all terrains.

“The IG has confirmed that comprehensive plans have been set in motion to guarantee a smooth election, including the strategic deployment of personnel, resources, and state-of-the-art equipment,” Adejobi said.

He also issued a stern warning against political violence, stating that anyone attempting to disrupt the election would face the full force of the law.

Additionally, the IG reaffirmed that only federal security agencies and members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security would be permitted to participate. Amotekun and the Vigilante Corps were specifically excluded from the security arrangements for the election.

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“The security of this election is the responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force and federal security agencies,” Adejobi concluded.