The Kwara State Police Command has announced strict vehicular movement restrictions ahead of the local government election scheduled for Saturday, News About Nigeria reports.
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, vehicular movement will be restricted from 12:00 am to 6:00 pm on election day.
The state’s Commissioner of Police, Victor Olaiya, called on residents to comply with the directive, urging them to maintain peace during the electoral process.
“Any individual found violating the curfew will face the full wrath of the law,” the statement read.
In addition to the movement restrictions, the police have prohibited armed security personnel escorting VIPs from accompanying them to polling stations.
This is to prevent any undue influence or disruptions at polling booths.
Exceptions to the movement ban will be made for essential service providers, accredited electoral officials, authorised media personnel, election observers, and emergency responders.
“We urge all residents to cooperate with this directive to ensure the election is fair, peaceful, and free of violence. The Commissioner of Police remains dedicated to safeguarding Kwara State and its citizens during this important civic exercise,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, has also announced similar restrictions for the upcoming governorship election in Edo State, slated for Saturday, September 21, 2024.
According to a statement from Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP has ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation in Edo from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm on election day.
Exceptions in Edo will also apply to essential service providers, accredited media, election officials, ambulances, and emergency responders.
Additionally, the IGP has banned all security aides from accompanying VIPs to polling stations and collation centres.
He added that special attention will be given to people with disabilities (PWDs), pregnant women, nursing mothers, and the elderly to ensure they can vote comfortably.
