The Police Service Commission (PSC) has announced that it has deployed staff to monitor the conduct of police officers on election duty in the November 16 Ondo governorship election.
The commission stated that its staff, who will be present across various local government areas, will ensure that police officers comply with the rules of engagement.
In a statement released on Thursday, the commission’s spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ani, noted that the commission’s chairman, retired DIG Hashimu Argungu, urged police officers to maintain good conduct.
He said, “Police Service Commission Staff Monitors have arrived in Ondo State to monitor the conduct of police officers on electoral duties during Saturday’s governorship election in the state.
“The Staff Monitors are in Ondo State to ensure that the police conduct themselves within approved rules and regulations and in line with established rules of engagement.
“The Commission Monitors are expected to be in all the local government areas in the state.
“Commission Chairman, retired DIG Hashimu Argungu, charged PSC Ambassadors to conduct themselves honourably and not yield to pressure that could undermine the purpose of the assignment. He stated that the Commission remains committed to supporting the sustenance and advancement of the nation’s democratic process.”
The PSC Chairman added that holding the police accountable for their actions and inactions during the election would promote greater dedication to duty by officers and generally help ensure the success of the elections.
“He urged the officers to be firm yet friendly and polite towards the electorate, emphasising that they must safeguard the voters, voting materials, and voting environment. He added that the police, as the lead agency in internal security, which includes election security, must play a pivotal role in ensuring a free, fair, and credible election in Ondo State,” the statement added.
