Lagos State Police Command has restated its resolve to ensuring that elections are conducted in safe and secure manner.
It has taken proactive steps to prevent any potential acts of aggression or disruption to enable citizens cast their votes without fear or intimidation.
Lagos State Police PRO, SP Benjamin Hundeyin stated these while speaking at a one-day pre-election workshop organized in Lagos yesterday by Friedrich Ebert Shifting, FES in collaboration with the Labour Writers Association of Nigeria (LAWAN).
Represented by DSP Chinwe Zita, he said:”Violence-free elections are essential to the functioning of a healthy democracy.They provide citizens with an opportunity to express their opinions and beliefs without fear of intimidation or harm.
“When voters cast their ballots in peace,they are more likely to feel confident that their voice is being heard and respected by those in power. This helps ensure that all voices can be heard,regardless of political affiliations or other factors”, Hundeyin said.
The Police image maker also assures that officers will be visible at polling locations on Election Days, as well as when ballots are counted and results declared.
“We will also patrol areas where they may be a risk of unrest or violent activity related to the election process so that we can take action if necessary..This presence will serve as both deterrence against unlawful behaviour as well as an assurance that any issues can be addressed quickly should they arise.
“Additionally, we are working closely with local election officials in advance of the voting day so that all necessary security protocols are established prior to opening polls”,he said.
Hindering said the Police would be working closely with sister agencies, local authorities and other stakeholders such as political parties, civil society organizations and media outlets in order to share information about security measures being taken before Election Day arrives.
He disclosed that special trainings are also being organized for officers on how best to handle situations which could potentially lead towards conflict or disorder during this period of heightened tension around elections
