The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the implementation of robust security measures across 13 states ahead of the bye-elections scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025.
In a statement issued on Friday, Egbetokun confirmed that senior police officers—including Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) and Commissioners of Police—have been deployed to oversee security operations in the affected local government areas.
He also revealed that tactical units and resources from the Police Mobile Force, Force Intelligence Department, and other specialized divisions have been mobilized to ensure a peaceful, free, and fair electoral process.
The states where the bye-elections will be held include Anambra, Kano, Oyo, Taraba, Enugu, Adamawa, Edo, Jigawa, Kogi, Ogun, Zamfara, and Niger.
As part of the security arrangements, the IGP announced a restriction of movement in the affected areas from midnight to 6 p.m. on election day. However, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accredited journalists, election observers, emergency responders, and firefighters are exempted from the restriction.
Egbetokun also reinforced the existing ban on VIPs moving with security escorts during the elections, stressing that violations will not be tolerated. He further prohibited any involvement of state-owned or private security outfits in the election security process.
The IGP urged all officers deployed for the elections to maintain professionalism and strictly follow the Nigeria Police Force’s standard operating procedures. He warned against any form of misconduct.
He concluded by calling on citizens to remain peaceful and law-abiding, assuring the public that all necessary security measures have been put in place to ensure a smooth and credible voting exercise.
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