Don't accompany VIPs on election day, Gombe CP warns escorts

Gombe State Commissioner of Police, CP Oqua Etim

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The Gombe State Commissioner of Police, CP Oqua Etim, has warned all aides and escorts of top personalities to refrain from accompanying their principals and other politicians to the polling booth as that will attract stringent disciplinary measures from the command.

Etim made this known ahead of the forthcoming governorship and state House of Assembly elections in the state.

He said, "The idea is to ensure all citizens freely participate in the electoral process devoid of intimidation, harassment or fear. So, all VIP security aides must refrain from accompanying their principals on Election Day."

Explaining further, the Commissioner of Police disclosed that the order would ensure a safe, secure and enabling environment for the smooth conduct of the exercise.

"The command wishes to once again enjoin all eligible electorates to be law-abiding and turn out to exercise their franchise," he added.

Etim noted that vigilante and hunter groups were exempted from the order, stressing that any group without legal backing of the law are allowed to function as well.

"Those affected in the warning are quasi security outfits such as vigilante groups, hunters, security outfits, and any other voluntary organisation, without legal backing should not form part of the exercise, as such anyone found in uniform flouting this directive will be arrested and arraigned before the court during the forthcoming elections," he added.

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