By Olayemi Esan
As Anambra State prepares for its governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Yet, amid the political fervor, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, is taking decisive steps to ensure that peace, order, and public safety prevail across the state.
In a bold and proactive move, CP Orutugu has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Commanders to launch targeted intelligence-driven operations and coordinated security raids in identified flashpoints. The goal is clear — to curb the menace of political thuggery, cult-related violence, and the illegal possession of firearms before they can disrupt the democratic process.
According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, this directive follows credible intelligence reports suggesting that certain individuals and groups may be recruiting youths for violent activities aimed at destabilizing the election.
CP Orutugu’s response reflects a preventive security philosophy that prioritizes early intervention and deterrence over reactionary policing.“The Command will not tolerate any attempt to disrupt public peace, intimidate voters, or undermine lawful electoral processes,” the Commissioner warned, reaffirming his commitment to a violence-free poll.
Beyond issuing operational orders, CP Orutugu has made it clear that the Nigeria Police Force remains neutral and non-partisan. He underscored that the Police are guided solely by their constitutional duty — to protect lives and property, safeguard the integrity of the electoral space, and enforce the law without fear, favour, or political influence.
This renewed enforcement strategy is not just about policing; it’s about restoring public confidence in the security apparatus as a non-partisan guardian of democracy. The Command is also working closely with sister security agencies, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders to ensure robust collaboration and intelligence sharing throughout the election period.
Under CP Orutugu’s leadership, the Anambra State Police Command is clearly determined to send a strong message — that violence, intimidation, and electoral malpractice will find no foothold in the state.
As Election Day approaches, citizens, candidates, and observers alike can take reassurance in the firm resolve of the Anambra Police Command to make safety and order the cornerstone of the democratic process.
With vigilance, professionalism, and integrity, CP Ikioye Orutugu stands ready to secure every voter, every ballot, and every community — ensuring that Anambra’s 2025 governorship election is remembered not for fear, but for peace.