CP Adebowale Lawal Receives Ondo INEC REC, Assures Adequate Security For Ondo Bye-election

The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Adebowale Lawal, psc(+), mnips, has reaffirmed the Command’s readiness to provide adequate security before, during, and after the forthcoming bye-election in the State.

The assurance was given when the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ondo State Dr Mutiu Agboke and his team paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police at the Command Headquarters, Akure on the 7th of May, 2026.

During the visit, discussions centered on strengthening inter-agency collaboration and reviewing security arrangements ahead of the upcoming electoral exercise, with particular emphasis on ensuring a peaceful, credible, and violence-free process across the affected constituencies.

CP Adebowale assured the REC that the Ondo State Police Command, as the lead agency in electoral matters, has already commenced strategic operational planning to guarantee maximum security throughout the election period. He stressed that adequate security would be provided at all Collation centres, Polling units and other critical locations associated with the electoral process.

The Commissioner further assured that all INEC staff, ad-hoc staff, voters, electoral materials, and facilities across the State would receive comprehensive protection, noting that the Command remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that citizens exercise their civic responsibilities without fear or intimidation.

He stated that the Command would continue to intensify intelligence gathering, visibility policing, strategic patrols, and coordinated operations aimed at preventing any act capable of disrupting public peace before, during, or after the election.

In his remarks, the Resident Electoral Commissioner expressed satisfaction with the existing collaborative efforts between INEC and the Ondo State Police Command. He commended the Command for its proactive security measures, professionalism and commitment towards ensuring a secure and peaceful electoral environment.

The REC assured the Commissioner of INEC’s readiness to continue working closely with the Police and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the conduct of a transparent, credible, and hitch-free bye-election. He further pledged that the Commission would continue to uphold its constitutional responsibilities with fairness, neutrality and integrity.

CP Adebowale also expressed profound appreciation to the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Hon. Dr. Orimisan Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his continuous support towards strengthening security architecture within the State. He equally commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, for his visionary leadership, strategic guidance, and unwavering commitment to ensuring a secure electoral environment across the country.

The Commissioner further appreciated the cooperation and synergy among sister security agencies, describing inter-agency collaboration as a critical factor in maintaining peace and order during elections. While calling on political actors, stakeholders and supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with the law, CP Adebowale also thanked the good people of Ondo State for their continued support, cooperation and timely sharing of credible information with security agencies.

Conclusively, he reassured residents that the Police Command remains fully committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring that the forthcoming bye-election is conducted in an atmosphere of peace, safety and public confidence.