TheCable

The Nigeria police force say they have so far arrested 323 persons for allegedly committing electoral offences in the just concluded elections.

Mohammed Adamu, inspector-general of police, disclosed this on Monday at a post-election evaluation meeting held with senior police officers in Abuja.

“Two officers also paid the supreme sacrifice, while some others were assaulted and injured,” the IGP added.

“For those arrested for various electoral infractions, I have directed the special electoral offences team of the force to undertake detailed and conclusive investigations into all the cases with a view to liaising with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in ensuring their prosecution.”

He also said the force is perfecting its plans for the upcoming governorship and state assembly elections, while reassuring of force’ “unwavering commitment” to work closely with INEC and sister security agencies in ensuring a peaceful exercise.

“I must, however, re-emphasize that just as in the recently concluded presidential and national assembly elections, the Nigeria police shall remain civil, firm, optimally professional and apolitical in the discharge of our duties in the 9th March elections,” he said.

“We shall, nonetheless, deploy all lawful assets and assert our statutory powers to deal decisively, firmly, and promptly with any person or groups that may attempt to disrupt the process.”

The police IG warned all political actors to abide by the rules of the electoral act and have in mind that “national interest overrides their personal ambitions.”

“Doing otherwise shall attract the full and appropriate response from the Police and other security agencies,” he said.