President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday charged the Inspector General of Police to sustain a leadership standard that will guarantee a level playing field, and secure public space for the citizens to freely exercise their franchise for the outcome of the 2023 elections to be a true reflection of the people's choices.
He made a charge at the opening ceremony of the conference and retreat for senior police officers, in Owerri, Imo State capital.
Buhari said elections are local, and it is only when the votes really count that the faith of the citizens in the democratic process can be demonstrated and government legitimacy assured.
According to him, "This can best be guaranteed through a well-policed election and security operations that is impartial, firm, and professional. This is what, on this day and this occasion, I charge the Nigeria Police Force to deliver to the nation during the 2023 General Elections.
"I, therefore, task the Inspector General of Police to sustain his leadership standards that will guarantee a level playing field and secure public space for the citizens to freely exercise their franchise and for the outcome of the elections to be a true reflection of the people's choices. I offer my full assurance of support and encouragement in this process.
"I am fully aware of all steps being taken by the Inspector General of Police to adequately prepare personnel of the Force for the General Elections including the recently concluded geo-political election security management workshop as well as the ongoing Operational Plans ahead of the exercise.
"I expect that the Force will maximize the opportunity of this Conference and Retreat to achieve two critical goals. First, to review the current and evolving internal security threats as they may impact a peaceful and successful election. Second, to perfect operational plans that will guarantee a credible outcome in the 2023 General Elections.
At the conference, Buhari said the retreat will enable us to discuss issues relating to the role and capacity of the Nigeria Police, being the lead agency in the electoral and internal security process, towards ensuring a peaceful, secure, free, fair, and credible 2023 General Elections.
Buhari further said the event will also provide a unique opportunity to brainstorm on pathways to guaranteeing a stable internal security space in the countdown to the electoral transition exercise.
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