The Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, has urged police personnel in Ebonyi to ensure that the incessant burning of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices is halted with immediate effect.
Baba gave the order while addressing officers and men of Ebonyi state Police Command in Abakaliki after receiving the Grand Commander Ebonyi Hall Of Fame (GCEHF) award from Governor Dave Umahi, urging the personnel to do all within their powers to protect INEC and other public facilities in the state.
“The mode of attack by these hoodlums is complex because they throw bombs and dynamites among others from distances.
“We believe that in addition to providing physical security at the INEC offices, you should liaise with its officials on providing offices for our personnel,” he said.
Continuing, he said, “Existing INEC offices across the state should be relocated to safer places if possible but if not; important materials should be relocated to safer places.
“I appreciate all your efforts to protect lives and properties in Ebonyi and the various assistance of the state government to the force.”
He noted that activities of the Ebubeagu security outfit in the state should be regulated by the police as it should not operate unchecked.
“There is a law establishing the outfit and I am sure that its responsibilities fall under the supervision of the police.
“There is no problem with the outfit wearing uniforms because even community police officers wear uniforms.
“They must, however, have proper means of identification and it should be reiterated that the task of policing is everyone’s business,” he said.
The state Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Garba, thanked the IGP for the visit and noted that it has greatly boosted the morale of its personnel in the state.
“We promise to redouble our efforts in securing the lives and properties of the citizens,” he said.