By Kingsley Omonobi

The Police Service Commission (PSC) monitoring team has arrived in Edo State to keep a close eye on the conduct of police officers during the upcoming governorship election on Saturday.

This move aims to ensure that the police remain neutral and professional throughout the electoral process.

The team’s presence serves as a warning to police officers that any misconduct or dereliction of duty will be met with disciplinary action. This stern warning underscores the PSC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.

A statement by it’s Spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani said, “The team will be led by DIG Taiwo Lakanu rtd, Hon Commissioner in the Commission and will include other high ranking staff of the Commission.

“The Staff Monitors will operate from the three Senatorial Districts and will hold the Police accountable for their actions or inactions before, during and after the election.

“Police Officers on electoral duties are expected to be neutral and ensure that both the voters and the voting materials are protected and secured.

“The Officers are also expected to ensure that voting is peaceful and orderly and that voters are given unfettered access to discharge their civic responsibility.

The leader of the Delegation, DIG Lakanu has charged the Police Officers on election duties to be civil, smart but strict in enforcing the electoral laws.

He said as lead Agency in internal security, which includes security of election, the Police in Edo elections should exhibit strong leadership qualities expected of them.

DIG Lakanu said the Commission will discipline any Police Officer who fails to conduct himself in a manner deserving of his office, adding that the success or failure of the election depends on the effectiveness of the Police Officers on duty.

He said the Commission will also commend Officers who exhibit exemplary conduct during the elections.

In the same vein, the Commission has released dedicated telephone numbers for Nigerians to reach the Commission’s situation Room in Benin to present their complaints or commendation on the conduct of Police Officers during the election.

The numbers are: State Coordinator – 08064696711; 08185241907;  07038231615

Edo South; 08035909482; 08052084461

Edo Central; 08033145592; 08037879854

Edo North; 08055480701; 08083283429

Media Coordinator – 08033345362

The monitoring of Police conduct during elections is one of the Commission’s obligations to ensure the sustenance of the nation’s fragile democracy.