The IGP made this confirmation in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi. He said the three officers were among the occupants of a black-coloured security vehicle that was intercepted by soldiers on election duty in Okene.
The statement reads partly, “The Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has confirmed that three suspects arrested by soldiers during the just concluded governorship election in Kogi State are police officers.”
He added, “It has been confirmed that three officers who were arrested by soldiers and handed over to the Police were indeed police personnel but were found to be escorting a VIP contrary to directives.”
The IGP also said that other officers who were arrested by election officials for escorting VIPs during the polls would also face disciplinary measures, as such actions were against established protocols.
He said, “Others who were arrested by election officers escorting VIPs during the polls will also be sanctioned as such actions are against established protocols, and the officers involved will face disciplinary measures as a consequence.”
The IGP thanked the officers who participated in the Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa State off-circle elections and commended them for their professionalism and dedication. He also vowed to sanction any erring officer who violated the rules of engagement and compromised the integrity of the electoral process.
He said, “Mr Salam emphasised that this decision followed the agencies’ absence during a committee sitting aimed at addressing the audit queries against them.”
He also said, “He also issued a stern warning, stating that this invitation represents the final notice before a warrant of arrest could be issued against the heads of these agencies.”