Police ban Agunechemba, other vigilantes from functioning during Anambra election

‘From 6 p.m. on the eve of the election, no vigilante should appear in uniform near any polling station, CP Orutugu warns
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has banned members of the Agunechemba Vigilante Group and other local security outfits from participating in election duties during the forthcoming November 8, 2025, governorship election.

Issuing the directive on Monday during a statewide engagement tour on election security, Orutugu warned that vigilante operatives must stay away from polling units and not be seen in uniform near any election area.

“Every Agunechemba member should stay away from polling units. You are citizens like everyone else—vote peacefully and go home. From 6 p.m. on the eve of the election, no vigilante should appear in uniform near any polling station,” the CP warned.

He stressed that election security remains the constitutional duty of the Nigeria Police Force and other statutory agencies, not community-based groups.

During his visits to the Ihiala Area Command and Oraifite Division, Orutugu met with community leaders, including Agunechemba Commander Chief A.K. Ilobi and President General of Ihiala, Hon. Levy Omatu, to strengthen cooperation ahead of the polls.

While commending the gradual return of peace to Ihiala, Orutugu acknowledged existing logistical challenges and assured improved police presence and support.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to a peaceful and credible election.

In response, Chief Ilobi described the CP’s visit as timely, noting that although normalcy is returning, the police need more vehicles and infrastructure to sustain the gains.

The Commissioner urged residents to remain law-abiding and report suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency lines—112 or 07039194332.