Police Ban Unauthorized Security Groups Ahead of Anambra Governorship Election

By Oluwakemi Kindness

The Nigeria Police has announced a total ban on the activities of all unauthorized security groups ahead of the Anambra State Governorship Election scheduled for November 8, 2025.

The Force said only federally recognized security agencies are permitted to provide security during the polls, in line with the Electoral Act, 2022.

Addressing INEC officials, stakeholders, and citizens during an election security briefing, Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun said the proscription includes state-backed vigilante formations and non-state actors such as the defunct Ebube Agu outfit and other quasi-security groups operating without federal authorization.

According to the Police, Sections 91(1) and 120(1) of the Electoral Act assign exclusive responsibility for election security to the Nigeria Police Force, prohibiting any other group or individual from performing such functions on Election Day.

The IGP warned that any group or person attempting to act in a security capacity outside federal agencies would face immediate arrest and prosecution.

The Police Chief also raised concerns of intelligence reports indicating attempts by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, Eastern Security Network (ESN), to disrupt the electoral process through unlawful restrictions, sit-at-home orders, and voter intimidation.

He stressed that no group has the authority to dictate movement or interfere with the democratic process.

“Any attempt by IPOB, ESN, or any non-state actor to obstruct lawful voting or undermine the sovereignty of the Nigerian State will be met with a coordinated and overwhelming response,” the IGP said, adding that precision-targeted operations were already underway to identify and neutralize potential threats.

Beyond the proscription, the Police announced a multi-layered security deployment across Anambra’s 21 local government areas, adding that officers will be stationed in all 4,608 polling units, supported by other federal agencies including the Armed Forces, NSCDC, FRSC, NIS, and NDLEA.