Anambra Bye-Election: Police Ban Vigilantes as AIG Eze Takes Charge

AIG Godwin Eze addressing Police chiefs ahead of Anambra by election

Vigilante operatives and other quasi-security outfits in Anambra State have been barred from participating during the bye-election period scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025.

This follows the deployment of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Godwin Eze as the Supervising Officer for the upcoming Anambra South Senatorial District bye-elections.

The police have also announced a restriction on vehicular movement within the affected areas from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on election day.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the action was described as being in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police.

According to the statement, AIG Godwin Eze officially assumed duty on Friday and has taken full charge of the deployment of officers and men for the election exercise.

The PPRO noted that the AIG, in his address, emphasized that only duly accredited security personnel will be permitted to perform election duties.

He said all vigilante operatives, hunters, and other quasi-security groups are strictly prohibited from any form of engagement during the election.

“Furthermore, to ensure a safe and hitch-free election, there shall be restrictions on vehicular movement from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the affected areas throughout the election period,” he stated.

The areas affected by the movement restriction include,Nnewi North and South,Orumba North and South,Ekwusigo,Aguata,Ihiala (All in the Anambra South Senatorial District)

Additional areas include,Onitsha North Constituency 1,Awka South Local Government Area, where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters is located.

According to ikenga, the restriction is a proactive measure aimed at deterring criminal activities, minimizing the risk of electoral violence, and ensuring the safety of voters, electoral officials, and security personnel.

However, he said the Command assured residents of its readiness to safeguard the electoral process and urged the public to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security personnel deployed for the exercise.

For complaints or emergencies, the public is advised to contact the AIG via 08023407772, the Command’s Control Room at 07039194332, or the Police PPRO at 08039334002.