2027: Security agencies strategise against election violence in Kogi

Security agencies and other stakeholders in Kogi State have begun preparations for the 2027 general election, with a focus on preventing violence and other threats that could undermine the electoral process.

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The stakeholders met in Lokoja under the Inter-Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) to review emerging security threats and strengthen coordination ahead of the elections.

The Kogi Resident Electoral Commissioner, Shehu Wahab, who spoke at the meeting, said the committee had a responsibility to deploy its experience and resources to ensure voters could exercise their franchise peacefully.

He said the meeting provided an opportunity for security agencies to review security concerns and determine measures required to safeguard the electoral process.

The meeting, which lasted about two hours, was held behind closed doors as members reviewed security concerns and other issues surrounding the 2027 elections.

The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, subsequently urged political actors to comply with electoral laws and avoid hate speech, incitement and other actions capable of disrupting public peace.

He also called for responsible political communication and peaceful campaigns ahead of the elections.

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Mr Wahab said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was putting measures in place to support the work of ICCES and strengthen efforts towards a peaceful and credible election in the state.

He acknowledged that Kogi, like other states in Nigeria, has areas facing security challenges, adding that the security committee was designed to address such concerns through collaboration among relevant agencies.

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The development comes a day after PREMIUM TIMES reported that Governor Ahmed Ododo banned night arrests and urged traditional rulers to work toward peaceful, violence-free elections.

Mr Ododo, while addressing first-class traditional rulers at the Government House in Lokoja on Monday, directed security agencies not to invade homes or make arrests at night.

He also urged the monarchs to discourage political thuggery, intimidation and violence, and to ensure that political campaigns are issue-based rather than driven by religion or ethnicity.

The governor’s directive and the latest security meeting come as Kogi begins early preparations for the 2027 electoral process, with stakeholders stressing the need for security agencies, political actors and communities to work together to prevent violence.