As Lagos State prepares for its local government elections on July 12, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has approved the deployment of additional police personnel from nearby states to strengthen security across the state.
The deployment includes officers equipped with anti-riot gear, as well as Marine Police units to patrol waterways, ensuring peaceful conduct in both mainland and riverine communities.
This was disclosed by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, during a press briefing held on Tuesday at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja. He said the police are working closely with the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) to ensure full security coverage during the polls.
“We are making adequate preparations. To meet the required deployment numbers as recommended by the electoral guidelines, we are bringing in officers from other commands,” CP Jimoh stated.
CP Jimoh said a threat assessment had already been carried out in all 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) across Lagos. High-risk areas identified during the assessment will receive increased security presence to prevent election-day violence.
He added that a temporary restriction of movement may be imposed in certain locations during the election, depending on further discussions with LASIEC. Details of the restriction will be made public ahead of the polls.
The Commissioner also warned local security groups and vigilante organisations not to take part in election security duties. According to him, only federal security agencies listed under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) will be allowed to operate on election day.
“Only federal security agencies approved to oversee electoral duties will be allowed to operate. Community-based or quasi-security outfits should stay away. Any concerns should be channelled directly to the police,” Jimoh said.
CP Jimoh further stated that security operations will continue even after voting ends. This, he said, is to manage any post-election issues that may arise, including possible clashes during **celebrations or result disputes**.
The July 12 election is expected to see high voter turnout as Lagos residents elect council chairmen and councillors across the state. The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission has promised a fair and transparent process, with support from all security agencies.