…Visits Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Inspects Police Preparedness Ahead of Governorship Election
With preparations gathering momentum for the forthcoming Ekiti State governorship election, the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-West geopolitical zone, DIG Adegoke Fayoade mni, has embarked on a strategic visit to the state to assess security preparedness and ensure the readiness of law enforcement personnel ahead of the crucial poll.
The visit forms part of the Nigeria Police Force’s proactive measures aimed at guaranteeing a peaceful, credible, and violence-free electoral process, while strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders whose roles are critical to maintaining peace and stability before, during, and after the election.
As part of the engagement, DIG Fayoade paid a courtesy visit to the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, where discussions centered on security, public order, and the importance of stakeholder participation in promoting peaceful elections.
The DIG emphasized that traditional rulers remain vital partners in ensuring a secure environment, particularly during election periods when tensions can sometimes rise. He noted that the support of traditional institutions is essential in mobilizing citizens towards peaceful conduct and providing useful information that could help security agencies prevent potential threats.
DIG Fayoade commended the monarch for his leadership and contributions to peace and development in Ekiti State, describing traditional institutions as indispensable allies in intelligence gathering, conflict resolution, and community policing efforts.
In his response, Oba Adejugbe welcomed the police chief and expressed confidence in the capacity of security agencies to provide adequate protection throughout the election period. The royal father pledged continued support for law enforcement agencies and called on political actors, supporters, and residents to embrace peace and uphold democratic values.
Following the palace visit, the DIG proceeded to the Ekiti State Police Command Headquarters, where he conducted an assessment of operational preparedness and held a strategic lecture and interactive session with officers and men of the command.
Addressing personnel, DIG Fayoade stressed the importance of professionalism, neutrality, discipline, and adherence to established electoral security guidelines. He reminded officers that the credibility of the electoral process depends significantly on the conduct of security personnel deployed for election duties.
He charged officers to remain vigilant, impartial, and committed to protecting voters, electoral officials, and election materials while respecting the rights of all citizens. According to him, intelligence-led policing, effective deployment strategies, and close collaboration with other security agencies will be crucial to ensuring a peaceful election.
The DIG also reiterated the need for continuous engagement with communities and stakeholders as part of efforts to identify and neutralize potential security threats before they escalate.
The interactive session provided officers with an opportunity to discuss operational challenges, exchange ideas, and seek clarification on election security protocols and best practices. Discussions focused on improving operational efficiency, strengthening public confidence, and ensuring seamless coordination among security agencies during the election period.
The visit is part of a broader security assessment tour across the South-West aimed at evaluating operational readiness, boosting personnel morale, and reinforcing the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic process.
Observers say the engagement demonstrates the police leadership’s determination to leave no room for complacency as preparations intensify for the Ekiti governorship election.
The visit concluded with renewed assurances from security authorities, traditional institutions, and community leaders of their commitment to working together to maintain peace, protect democratic institutions, and ensure that residents of Ekiti State exercise their civic responsibilities in a safe and secure environment.
