By Daud Olatunji

ABEOKUTA—Ogun State command of Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, has begun moves to prevent illegal immigrants from participating in the coming election, with the arrest of 12 illegal immigrants.

The state Comptroller of NIS, Mrs Victoria Isang, disclosed this yesterday during an unscheduled inspection tour of NIS formations across the state.

She said 12 illegal immigrants were arrested and repatriated to their country during the visit.

The comptroller, who visited Ifoyintedo Control Post, Ajegunle Main Border, Idiroko Control Post, Ajanlekoko Control Post and AJilete Motorized Patrol Base, vowed to ensure that foreigners are not allowed to vote in the state.

Isang said the essence of the visit was to ensure officers’ preparedness and duty consciousness in view of the forthcoming elections.

She said the command was prepared to partner INEC and other law enforcement agencies to ensure the sanctity of the elections and that foreig-ners did not take part in it.

Isang added that repatriation was a continuous process which would continue before, during and after elections.

She said: “In view of the fast-approaching elections, we want to ensure that officers are alert to their respective duties of ensuring that there are no influx of illegal immigrants in the country.”

The Comptroller added the visit was also to monitor the welfare of the officers and ensure that they operated in good working condition.

According to her, it takes a sane mind to be productive.

Isang, however, expressed her approval at officers efficiency and steadfastness at their duty posts.

“I am impressed at what I met on  ground, as all our men are well kitted in their uniforms and are at their duty posts,” she said.