Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa Face Heightened Security Concerns Ahead of Gubernatorial Polls

As the gubernatorial elections draw near in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa States, concerns over security issues are on the rise, causing anxiety among residents, political parties, and election officials. Daily Post highlights that unless security agencies effectively combat the activities of armed bandits, unknown gunmen, and political thugs, the integrity of the elections may be compromised by non-state actors.

Kogi:

In Kogi, recent attacks on political figures and clashes among party members have added to the already tense situation. Governor Yahaya Bello’s convoy was reportedly attacked by supporters of his political rival, Muritala Ajaka. The tension escalated as the SDP (Social Democratic Party) alleged that the state governor and the police commissioner were planning to attack their supporters. Senator Dino Melaye, the PDP candidate, also claimed he survived four assassination attempts and blamed the ruling APC for the violence.

The Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Ovye Aya, stated that the police have been engaging stakeholders to promote peaceful elections and are committed to preventing violence.

Imo:

In Imo, Oru East and Orlu Local Government Areas are considered the operational headquarters of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). These groups, suspected to be behind the unknown gunmen, have threatened that there will be no elections in Imo State. Security concerns are further compounded by attacks on security forces, government facilities, and INEC officials, which disrupted the last general elections.

Goodluck Ibem, the President General of the Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), expressed concerns that certain areas in Imo may not be safe for voting, and called on both the Federal and State Governments to ensure citizens’ safety.

Bayelsa:

While Bayelsa is relatively peaceful compared to Imo and Kogi, there are criminal elements causing disturbances in some communities. The Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council raised alarms about possible politically orchestrated violence in the Brass, Ekeremor, and Southern Ijaw Local Government Areas ahead of the gubernatorial elections.

The Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Butswat Asinim, reassured the public that the election would be peaceful and that they are well-prepared to maintain security.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has also expressed concerns about the increasing insecurity in these states and appealed to political parties and candidates to avoid actions that could disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections.

As the elections approach, the security situation in these states remains a critical issue, and authorities are making efforts to ensure the safety and integrity of the electoral process.