The Commissioner of Police,Taraba Command, Betty Isokpan has expressed readiness of the force to ensure a peaceful conduct of the Karim-Lamido 1 State Assembly by-election on Saturday.
Isokpan said this when he played host to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Taraba, Umar Gajiram at the command headquarters in Jalingo.
In a statement by ASP James Lashen, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the command, the meeting was aimed at strengthening inter-agency collaboration and reviewing the overall security architecture for the smooth conduct of the by-election.
According to the statement, the REC earlier appreciated the Nigeria Police force for its pivotal role in election security.
He described his visit as necessary to officially introduce himself and seek proactive synergy as the state prepares for the forthcoming by-election in Karim Lamido.
The chairman further highlighted the sensitive nature of elections, nothing the indispensable role of the Nigeria police in maintaining peace and public order during such civil exercises.
The statement quoted the response by the commissioner of police as expressing readiness to collaborate fully with the commission.
“She described the Taraba police command,s management team as officers with experience already attuned to the expectation of electoral security.
“The CP assured the REC of her unwavering commitment to strengthen security collaboration for a seamless electoral processe in the forthcoming by-election.
“She assured him of adequate security measures and deployment of personnel, emphasising the importance of taking security precautions seriously.
“She encouraged INEC to work closely with all security formations for a hitch free election,” it stated.
Recall that a by-election was scheduled by INEC for the vacant seat, following the resignation of Dr Mike Jen (PDP), who is now the state Commissioner for Tertiary Education.