2015: Unarmed policemen to be deployed at all polling units

The Nigerian Police Force has said unarmed policemen will be deployed into various polling units during the 2015 elections. The Police PRO, Emmanuel Ojukwu stated that three unarmed policemen would be at each polling station to monitor the election and secure electoral materials, noting that this would be done with other security agencies. In addition, he said the police high command had prepared for a successful transition process and had equally trained its personnel to conduct themselves in a professional manner. When asked what plans the force has to avert rigging and electoral violence, he said the police had never been partial to any political party, noting that the police would “do what they have always done.” He said, “The police have never been partial to any party. During the elections, we will do what we have always done to ensure that the election is free, fair and transparent. Three unarmed policemen will be deployed to each polling unit and they would be supported by security operatives from other agencies to ensure a credible election.”