By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has banned members of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group and other local security outfits from taking part in election duties come November 8, 2025, governorship election.

He revealed this during a statewide engagement tour on election security, warning that vigilante operatives must not come close to any polling units nor be seen in uniform near any election area.

He said: "Every Agunechemba member should stay away from polling units. You are citizens like everyone else—vote peacefully and go home.

"From 6 p.m. on the eve of the election, no vigilante should appear in uniform near any polling station.

"Election security remains the constitutional duty of the Nigeria Police Force and other statutory agencies, not community-based groups."

The CP, during his visits to the Ihiala Area Command and Oraifite Division, met with community leaders, including Agunechemba Commander, Chief A.K. Ilobi, and President General of Ihiala, Hon. Levy Omatu, to strengthen cooperation ahead of the polls.

Orutugu who hailed the gradual return of peace to Ihiala however acknowledged the existing logistical challenges even as he gave assurance on improved police presence and support.

The CP reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to a peaceful and credible election.

Responding, Chief Ilobi described the CP’s visit as timely, saying that although normalcy is returning, the police need more vehicles and infrastructure to sustain the gains.

He called on residents to remain law-abiding and report suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency lines—112 or 07039194332.