Security chiefs vow crackdown as Ribadu sends stern warning ahead of Anambra poll
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has warned politicians and stakeholders in Anambra State that any form of violence during the forthcoming governorship election will not be tolerated.
Ribadu issued the warning on Tuesday at a meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) held at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja.
Represented by the Director of Internal Security, Hassan Abdullahi, Ribadu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination to ensure a peaceful and secure environment ahead of the November 8, 2025 poll.
“We are engaging with political leaders and local stakeholders to send a clear message that violence will not be tolerated,” he said. “Political parties and candidates must promote peace and discourage acts of violence before, during, and after the election.”
Ribadu noted that his office is fully implementing President Bola Tinubu’s directive on the strategic mobilisation of security forces during the electoral period. He said enhanced surveillance, adequate deployment of security personnel, and stronger intelligence networks are already in place to stop “destructive elements or desperate politicians” from undermining the process.
He urged citizens to play their part in ensuring a peaceful election that reflects Nigeria’s shared values and democratic aspirations.
Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has approved the deployment of 45,000 officers for the poll. Represented by the Commissioner of Police for the Special Intervention Squad, Abayomi Shogunle, the IGP said pre-election deployments would begin on November 1, with tactical units carrying out clearance operations to arrest potential troublemakers.
He stressed that only officially recognised security agencies — including the Police, DSS, NSCDC, and the military — will take part in securing the election.
“No vigilante group will be allowed to play any role in the electoral process,” he said.