IGP Egbetokun Deploys 60,000 Officers, Names Shogunle As New Anambra Police Boss Ahead Of Polls

According to Ireporter Online, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has appointed Abayomi Shogunle as the new Commissioner of Police in Anambra State ahead of Saturday’s governorship election. Shogunle takes over from Ikioye Orutugu and will supervise all police operations during the highly anticipated poll.

A statement issued by the state police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, noted that the redeployment forms part of the Force’s strategic measures to enhance security coordination and ensure a peaceful, credible, and transparent electoral process across the state.

Upon resuming office, CP Shogunle reportedly activated the Enforcement Protocol for Anti-Electoral Offences to ensure strict compliance with electoral laws and zero tolerance for offences such as ballot snatching, vote buying, voter intimidation, and political thuggery.

Ikenga also revealed that the Commissioner has reinforced the Electoral Offences Desk to closely monitor social media and other online platforms for cyber-related electoral crimes, with prompt investigation and prosecution as a top priority.

To further strengthen operational efficiency, Shogunle has set up a central command structure designed for real-time intelligence sharing, rapid response, and coordination among security agencies. This will be supported by the joint deployment of over 60,000 security personnel drawn from various agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES).

According to the Command, ICCES operatives are expected to provide security at all 5,720 polling units across the state, with tactical teams stationed along inter-local government and state borders to prevent breaches.

The police reiterated that all local vigilante groups, including Agunechemba and other quasi-security outfits, remain barred from participating in election security activities. Only recognised federal security agencies will be allowed to provide protection services during the polls, in accordance with Nigerian law.

Furthermore, the Command warned that VIPs are prohibited from appearing at polling or collation centres with armed escorts or security aides. Those who violate this directive will face immediate arrest, withdrawal of escorts, and prosecution. The statement added that only accredited INEC officials, election observers, and journalists will be permitted to move freely within approved zones on election day.