IGP imposes movement restrictions, provides dedicated phone lines

The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has announced a restriction of movement in Edo State ahead of the governorship election scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024.

This measure aims to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process.

At least 17 political parties will contest the election, with the major contenders being the All Progressives Congress, the Peoples Democratic Party, and the Labour Party.

In a statement released on Friday, police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi detailed that all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other transport methods will be restricted from 6 am to 6 pm on election day.

Essential services such as accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders are exempt from this order.

“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,” Adejobi stated.

He emphasized that the ban extends to security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs at polling booths and collation centers, with unauthorized personnel prohibited from operating during the election. Additionally, the use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles is forbidden to maintain a calm atmosphere for voters.

Adejobi also noted that special provisions will be made for vulnerable groups. “Furthermore, the IG has mandated that special attention be afforded to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, aged, and those with mobility challenges, ensuring that polling stations in both urban and rural settings are accessible to all,” he said.

He also urged residents not to prank the emergency lines set up for reporting any incidents during the election.

“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 room and designated help numbers, highlighting that text messages are more effective for operational purposes,” Adejobi added.

He provided the designated lines for inquiries and reporting: “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.”

Egbetokun encouraged citizens to be vigilant. “Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or incidents that may jeopardize the integrity of the electoral process or cause disorderliness in any part of the state,” he said. He emphasized the importance of adhering to these directives to prevent any interference during the election.

“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 with the full extent of the law,” he warned.

The IGP reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to fostering a safe and democratic environment, stating, “Through collaborative efforts, we can guarantee that the forthcoming elections in Edo, specifically and the future, are held fairly and peacefully.”