The Delta State chapter of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has sought stronger collaboration with the Delta State Police Command to guarantee peaceful, credible and violence-free elections across the state.
The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the leadership of IPAC to the Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, at the Police Command Headquarters in Asaba.
The delegation said the visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between political parties and security agencies ahead of future electoral activities in the state.
Speaking during the meeting, the IPAC leadership stressed the importance of security in sustaining democracy and protecting the integrity of the electoral process.
According to the council, the police remain a critical stakeholder whose role is vital in ensuring that elections are conducted in a peaceful and orderly atmosphere.
The delegation urged the Police Command to maintain professionalism, neutrality and fairness before, during and after elections.
IPAC noted that adequate security deployment and intelligence gathering would help prevent electoral violence and other activities capable of disrupting the democratic process.
The council also emphasised the need for continuous engagement between political parties and security agencies to address emerging concerns ahead of elections.
It expressed confidence in the capacity of the Delta State Police Command to provide a secure environment that would enable citizens to exercise their voting rights without fear or intimidation.
Responding, Commissioner of Police Yemi Oyeniyi appreciated the visit and described stakeholder collaboration as essential to maintaining peace and security in the state.
He assured the delegation that the Police Command would continue to discharge its constitutional responsibilities professionally and impartially.
The police commissioner reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to protecting lives and property while safeguarding democratic institutions.
Oyeniyi stated that the command would remain neutral and ensure that every political party receives equal treatment in line with the law.
He urged political leaders and their supporters to conduct their activities peacefully and avoid actions capable of causing tension or violence.
The commissioner further called on political stakeholders to promote issue-based campaigns and encourage their members to respect the rule of law.
According to him, peaceful elections require collective responsibility and cooperation among political parties, security agencies and other stakeholders.
He assured IPAC that the command would continue to strengthen security strategies aimed at ensuring smooth and credible electoral processes.
The meeting ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to sustaining cooperation in the interest of peace, stability and democratic development in Delta State.
