By Bashir Adamu, Jalingo
The Taraba State Police Command has strengthened its collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure peaceful political campaigns and a secure electoral environment in the state.
The collaboration was sealed on Thursday when the Resident Electoral Commissioner, INEC Taraba State, Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, CP Edwin Ogbeghagha, at the Command Headquarters in Jalingo.
The meeting focused on addressing shared concerns relating to electoral regulations, emerging challenges and measures to guarantee the safety and security of the electorate before, during and after elections. Particular attention was given to the ongoing campaign period and the need for effective coordination among stakeholders to prevent clashes between political parties and their supporters.
CP Ogbeghagha reaffirmed the commitment of the Command to work closely with INEC and other stakeholders to maintain law and order throughout the electoral process. He stressed that all political parties, candidates and their supporters must conduct their activities peacefully and in strict compliance with electoral laws.
According to him, the Command will adopt proactive security measures, intelligence-led policing and sustained stakeholder engagement to prevent electoral violence, protect lives and property and ensure that eligible voters exercise their constitutional rights without fear or intimidation.
He further emphasised the need for clear guidelines on campaign venues, locations and schedules to promote peaceful political activities and avoid confrontations.
The Command, through its Public Relations Officer, ASP Victor Mshelizah, called on political parties, campaign organisations and members of the public to embrace tolerance, shun inflammatory statements and violence and promptly report any security concerns to the appropriate authorities.
The Police Command assured residents of its impartiality, professionalism and commitment to protecting democratic processes in Taraba State.
