The Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive for the restriction of all forms of vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other transportation modes from 12 am to 6 pm in 26 states where bye-elections are scheduled for Saturday. The affected states include Ebonyi, Yobe, Kebbi, Lagos, Ondo, Taraba, Benue, Borno, Kaduna, Plateau, and Akwa Ibom, among others.
Exceptions to the vehicular movement restriction are made for individuals on essential duties, such as officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), election observers, accredited journalists, ambulances responding to medical emergencies, and firefighters, among others.
The Inspector General of Police has also imposed a ban on all security aides to VIPs and escorts, prohibiting them from accompanying their principals and politicians to polling booths and collation centers during the election. This measure aims to ensure a fair and secure electoral process.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, conveyed this information in a statement on Thursday, emphasizing the importance of these restrictions in preventing undue interference or intimidation during the electoral process. Adejobi clarified that state-established and owned security outfits, quasi-security units, and privately owned guard and security outfits are also barred from participating in election security management.
The Inspector General urged political parties, candidates, and their supporters to conduct themselves responsibly and in accordance with electoral laws. He warned that any attempt to disrupt the electoral process or violate established guidelines would be met with the full force of the law.
Adejobi encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities or incidents that may undermine the electoral process to the appropriate authorities. The Inspector General expressed confidence that, through collective efforts, the upcoming run-off and bye-elections would be conducted peacefully, transparently, and in line with democratic principles.
