The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has ordered a restriction on mobility in Edo State ahead of the governorship election on Saturday, September 21, 2024.
The police chief stated that this is to ensure that enough safeguards are put in place for peaceful, transparent, and credible elections.
According to reports, at least 17 political parties will compete in the election, with the All Progressives Congress, the Peoples Democratic Party, and the Labour Party leading the pack.
In a statement issued on Friday, Force spokeswoman Muyiwa Adejobi stated that the IG ordered a ban on all vehicular movement on highways, waterways, and other modes of transportation from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on election day.
He noted that individuals doing important jobs, such as credentialed journalists, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders, are excluded from the directive.
Adejobi said, “The Inspector-General of Police has announced comprehensive security measures to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process during the upcoming Edo off-cycle election scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024.
“In preparation for the election, the IGP has ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 6 am to 6 pm on the election day. Exceptions will be made for essential services, including accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders.
“To maintain the integrity of the electoral process, the IGP has implemented a ban on all security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centres. Unauthorised security personnel and quasi-security outfits are prohibited from operating during the election, and the use of sirens by unauthorised vehicles is strictly forbidden to ensure a calm environment for voters.”
The police PRO also said the IG directed that special attention should be accorded to people with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and old people, among others.
He said, “Furthermore, the IG has mandated that special attention be afforded to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, the elderly, and those with mobility challenges, ensuring that polling stations in both urban and rural settings are accessible to all,” adding that the IG sternly warned residents against pranking the emergency lines released by the police to report cases of emergencies during the election.
Adejobi said, “The Inspector-General of Police, through the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) for Edo Gubernatorial Election, DIG Frank Emeka Mba, mni, has appealed to citizens to refrain from making prank calls to control rooms and designated help numbers, highlighting that text messages are more effective for operational purposes.
“The designated election lines for enquiries and reporting are DIG Election DIG Frank Mba, 07025000383, and AIG Election AIG Benneth Igwe, 09085000029, while the general control room numbers are 08077773721 and 08037646272. The already activated joint control room is manned by police and relevant agencies engaged in the electoral process.”
Adejobi stated that the police boss urged the residents to report suspicious and other activities that could affect the integrity of the poll.
He said, “Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or incidents that may jeopardise the integrity of the electoral process or cause disorderliness in any part of the state.
“The Inspector-General of Police underscores the necessity of adhering to these directives to avert any undue interference and intimidation during the election. Political parties, candidates, and their supporters are urged to conduct themselves responsibly and in compliance with electoral laws, as any violations or attempts to disrupt the electoral process will be met to the full extent of the law.
“The IGP reaffirms the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force to promoting a safe and democratic environment. Through collaborative efforts, we can guarantee that the forthcoming elections in Edo, specifically and the future, are held fairly and peacefully.”
