Police to deploy 20,000 men for Rivers rerun election

Not less than 20,000 officers and men of the Nigeria Police are to be deployed for the December 10, 2016 rerun elections in Rivers State.

Inspector General Police, Idris K. Ibrahim, who disclosed this, yesterday, while addressing officers and men in Kano, restated the readiness of the Police to ensure peaceful elections.

The IGP, while revealing plans to ensure security of lives and property during the election, noted that taut surveillance would be mounted with additional deployment of 20 speedboats and three helicopters, during the election.

IGP Idris regretted cases of indiscipline and breach of code of conduct by some Police officers in the recent election in Ondo State and pledged improved outing in the Rivers rerun.

The Police boss reminded his officers and men to remain neutral and discharge their responsibility without fear or favour, warning that the command will not condone indiscipline of any form.

While enjoining the men to respect the diversity, religion and culture of host communities where they operate, IGP insisted that only a community oriented Police would gain the support of the people.

He added: “Let me promise you that Rivers rerun election will be peaceful and more coordinated, unlike what we had in Ondo State.  Also, we must respect the people we serve.

“If we don’t respect the communities, how do we get the cooperation we deserve from them. Police all over the world cannot operate without the support and cooperation of the people within its jurisdiction.