Politicians arming thugs towards forthcoming elections – IGP

The Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Adamu, has raised an alarm over the rate at which thugs in both Edo and Ondo states are being armed towards the forthcoming elections in both states.

The IGP made this revelation in a statement made public by the Police spokesman, Frank Mba.

He stated that the IGP has called on the attention of both state governments to these allegations.

The allegations he further stated are sequel to security reports submitted by the commissioners of police from both states.

The reports stated that, there is a very high possibility of violence and cross-attack by political opponents during the polls.

The reports of the commissioners revealed the following indicators:

-Arming and movement of political thugs

-Use of inciting statements during political campaigns

-High likelihood of violence and possible cross attack by political opponents

-Misinformation/disinformation aimed at heating-up of the polity

-Deliberate efforts at delegitimizing government institutions involved in the electoral processes

The IGP, however stated that the Police would not hesitate to bring the full weight of the law on anyone or group, irrespective of status, that may want to sabotage the security arrangements being put in place for the elections”.

The IGP advised politicians and their supporters to desist from act capable of undermining the electoral process in both states.