Ahead of the Edo off-cycle election on Saturday, September 21, 2024, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has laid out extensive security protocols to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
In a statement, Force Public Relations Officer Force Headquarters, Abuja ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the IGP emphasized that the measures will help safeguard citizens’ voting rights and maintain the election’s transparency.
A key part of the directive includes a statewide restriction on all vehicular movement from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day. However, vehicles involved in essential services such as accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders will be exempt from the restriction.
In addition, security aides and escorts for VIPs have been barred from accompanying their principals to polling booths and collation centres. Unauthorized security personnel, quasi-security outfits, and the use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles have also been prohibited to ensure a calm voting environment.
The IGP further instructed that special provisions be made for vulnerable groups, including individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, the elderly, and people with mobility challenges. This is to ensure that polling stations in both urban and rural areas are accessible to all voters.
Working alongside the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) for the Edo Gubernatorial Election, DIG Frank Emeka Mba, the IGP appealed to citizens to avoid making prank calls to the control room or designated help lines. Instead, he encouraged the use of text messages for operational efficiency. The dedicated election help lines are DIG Frank Mba (07025000383) and AIG Benneth Igwe (09085000029), while the general control room numbers are 08077773721 and 08037646272.
Citizens have been urged to report any suspicious activity that could jeopardize the election’s integrity or disrupt public order. The IGP reiterated that political parties, candidates, and their supporters must act in accordance with electoral laws, warning that any attempts to interfere with the process will be met with firm legal action.
The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the IGP, remains committed to ensuring a fair and secure electoral environment. The IGP called for public cooperation to ensure that the Edo election is peaceful and democratic.
