From Ifeoma Ejiofor
The Anambra State Police Command has issued a security advisory to communities across the State scheduled to conduct their respective town union elections during the Yelutide period.
The advisory was contained in a press statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the command, Tochukwu Ikenga (SP) yesterday.
The statement reads, “Police warn mischief makers, troublemakers, and individuals with criminal intentions to stay away from all election venues and desist from acts capable of causing tension, violence, or breakdown of law and order in any community.
“The Command further urges community members, candidates, supporters, and all interested parties to exercise restraint, respect constituted authorities, and refrain from taking the law into their own hands before, during, and after the elections. Disputes or grievances arising from the process should be channeled through lawful and established mechanisms.
“The Command recognizes that town union elections are vital community activities that contribute to grassroots leadership and development. However, it emphasizes that such exercises must be conducted peacefully, orderly, and strictly in line with existing laws, guidelines, and decisions of constituted authorities.
“To ensure the safety of lives and property, the Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, will deploy adequate personnel and resources to strategic locations across affected communities. Any person or group found engaging in violence, intimidation, unlawful assembly, or other criminal activities will be arrested and dealt with in accordance with the law.
The Anambra State police command also advised traditional rulers, town union executives, elders, youth leaders, and stakeholders to work closely with security agencies to promote peace and ensure the successful conduct of the elections.
The command reassured residents of its commitment to maintaining peace, public safety, and security throughout the Yelutide season and beyond, and called on all citizens to cooperate with security agencies in the collective effort to keep Anambra State safe and peaceful.