Security authorities have announced movement restrictions in parts of Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory ahead of scheduled elections on Saturday.
In Rivers State, the Police Command said movement will be restricted in Ahoada East and Khana Local Government Areas during the bye election for Ahoada East State Constituency II and Khana State Constituency II.
The restriction will take effect from 12 noon to 6 p.m. on election day within and around the affected local government areas.
According to the command, the measure is aimed at “ensuring a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election”.
The police said a large deployment of security personnel would be carried out across the two areas “to prevent any breakdown of law and order and to protect lives and property before, during, and after the election.”
Officers are expected to be stationed at strategic locations, polling units and major roads to deter violence, electoral malpractice and other criminal activities.
Residents have been advised to comply strictly with the restriction, avoid unnecessary gatherings around polling units, refrain from carrying weapons or suspicious items and report any suspicious activities.
Members of the public are also urged to “conduct themselves peacefully and in line with electoral laws.”
The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, warned that violators of the restriction order or those engaging in acts capable of disturbing public peace would be arrested and prosecuted. He also appealed to political parties, candidates and supporters to shun violence and adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act.
Parents and guardians were further advised to caution their children and wards against being used to foment trouble during the election. The command assured residents of adequate security to enable voters exercise their civic rights without fear.
Meanwhile, in Abuja, authorities have also announced a movement restriction ahead of the area council elections across the Federal Capital Territory.
Residents will be restricted from movement between 8 p.m. on Friday and 6 p.m. on Saturday following a directive issued by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The measure, approved by President Bola Tinubu, includes the declaration of Friday as a work free day to enable residents prepare for and participate in the election.
Security agencies have been deployed across the city to enforce compliance. Residents are advised to remain indoors during the restricted period except for accredited electoral officials and voters.
The government called on citizens to cooperate with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process.
