Police Monitoring Team to oversee conduct of Police officers during Edo Guber Election arrive Benin

Police Monitoring Team to oversee conduct of Police officers during Edo Guber Election arrive Benin

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has deployed a monitoring team to Edo State ahead of the September 21 governorship election to oversee the conduct of police officers during the electoral process.

In a statement, PSC spokesperson Ikechukwu Ani said the initiative is aimed at ensuring that officers remain neutral and uphold professionalism throughout the election.

The presence of the monitoring team serves as a clear warning to police personnel that any form of misconduct or negligence will result in disciplinary action.

The PSC reiterated its commitment to preserving the integrity of the electoral process by holding officers accountable for their actions.

The statement added that: “The team will be led by DIG Taiwo Lakanu (retd), Commissioner in the Commission and will include other high-ranking staff of the Commission.

“The Staff Monitors will operate from the three senatorial districts and will hold the Police accountable for their actions or inactions before, during and after the election.

“Police Officers on electoral duties are expected to be neutral and ensure that both the voters and the voting materials are protected and secured.

“The Officers are also expected to ensure that voting is peaceful and orderly and that voters are given unfettered access to discharge their civic responsibility.”

The leader of the Police Service Commission delegation, retired Deputy Inspector General Taiwo Lakanu, has instructed police officers assigned to election duties to balance civility with strict enforcement of electoral laws.

He emphasised that, as the primary agency responsible for internal security, including election security, the police in Edo State should demonstrate the strong leadership expected of them.

DIG Lakanu warned that any officer failing to uphold the standards of their position will face disciplinary action. He stressed that the effectiveness of the police directly impacts the success of the election.

Conversely, the commission will also recognise and commend officers who display exemplary behavior during the election.

In addition, the commission has provided dedicated phone lines for the public to report complaints or commendations regarding police conduct during the election.

The numbers, which connect directly to the state coordinator’s office, are 08064696711, 08185241907, and 07038231615. For issues specifically in Edo South, the numbers 08035909482 and 08052084461 are available.