The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has warned local security operatives, particularly members of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group, to steer clear of election duties during the forthcoming November 8, 2025, governorship election in the state.
CP Orutugu issued the warning on Monday during his ongoing statewide strategic engagements on election patriotism and community security awareness. The visit took him to the Ihiala Area Command and the Oraifite Police Division.
According to the Commissioner, all categories of local vigilante groups are not part of the official election security arrangement and must not be seen around polling stations during the exercise.
“Every Agunechemba member should stay away from polling units. You are citizens like everyone else,go peacefully to your polling stations, cast your votes, and return home. From 6 p.m. on the eve of the election, no vigilante should appear in uniform near any polling area,” Orutugu warned.
He emphasized that election security remains the constitutional responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force and other statutory security agencies, not local vigilantes or community outfits.
During his engagements, CP Orutugu met with key community stakeholders, including the President General of Ihiala Community, Hon. Henry (Levy) Omatu; Commander of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group, Chief A.K. Ilobi; the Youth President, Prince Chimezie Ezerioha; representatives of the Local Government Chairman; and officers under the Area Command.
At Ihiala, the Commissioner expressed optimism that the lingering security challenges in the area were gradually being overcome. He commended residents for their courage, civic responsibility, and resilience in resisting the influence of criminal elements who had previously attempted to destabilize the region and disrupt political activities.
While addressing security personnel in Oraifite, CP Orutugu praised the synergy between the police and other security agencies, emphasizing that security success in the area was a collective effort.
“The Police cannot take the glory alone for the peace recorded in this area. Security is a joint responsibility,” he noted.
He reiterated the Police Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and ensuring that the forthcoming election is conducted in a peaceful, credible, and secure atmosphere.
The Commissioner charged police officers and men to uphold discipline, professionalism, and courtesy in the discharge of their duties, stressing that policing must remain people-centered, intelligence-driven, and rooted in human rights protection.
About Author
