Segun Atanda/
As Lagos prepares for the July 12 Local Government elections, the state police command has announced the deployment of over 20,000 officers and personnel across the 13,003 polling units, vowing to maintain maximum security and neutrality throughout the electoral process.
Commissioner of Police (CP) Olohundare Jimoh, gave the assurance during a press briefing today, following a coordinated “Show of Force” exercise by multiple security agencies across the state.
According to CP Jimoh, the command has concluded “extensive and meticulous” preparations covering all phases of the election—before, during, and after voting—across the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas of Lagos.
“This operational readiness is not by accident but a product of deliberate planning, inter-agency collaboration, and stakeholder engagement,” the police boss said.
According to him, the previously announced restriction of vehicular movement has been adjusted. Movement will now be restricted from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on election day, instead of the earlier time of 3:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., to accommodate emergencies and international travel.
Jimoh noted that personnel from sister agencies including the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Civil Defence Corps have been deployed to support police efforts, with secret placements at potential flashpoints and marine patrols covering riverine communities.
He issued a stern warning to political actors and their supporters, cautioning against acts of violence, ballot snatching, or attempts to disrupt the polls.
“Anyone caught will face the full weight of the law,” he said.
Addressing civil society concerns about potential police bias, the Commissioner reaffirmed the command’s neutrality.
“We are not working for any political party. Our mandate is to protect the process and enforce the law. Any insinuation of bias is unfounded,” he said.
He added that special provisions have been made for vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, to ensure inclusive and secure participation.
Elite tactical units such as the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Anti-Riot Squad, and the Strike Force are on standby to swiftly counter any breach of peace.
“This election is about grassroots governance. The people must be allowed to freely choose their leaders. Lagos is safe, and we are ready to protect the will of the people,” Jimoh said.
The elections, to be conducted by the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), will usher in new leadership at the third tier of government in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
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