As Edo State prepares for the governorship election on Saturday, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has unveiled comprehensive security measures aimed at ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process.
The IGP has ordered significant restrictions on movement, effective from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day.
According to the Police Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, “All vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation will be restricted during this time, with exceptions made for essential services such as accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders.”
In a bid to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, the IGP has also imposed a ban on security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centers.
He stated, “Unauthorized security personnel and quasi-security outfits are prohibited from operating during the election. The use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles is strictly forbidden to ensure a calm environment for voters.”
The IGP emphasized the need for accessibility, mandating that special attention be given to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, the elderly, and those with mobility challenges. Polling stations in both urban and rural areas will be made accessible to all.
Additionally, IGP Egbetokun, through the Deputy Inspector-General for the Edo Gubernatorial Election, DIG Frank Mba, has urged citizens to avoid making prank calls to the Control Room and designated help numbers. “Text messages are more effective for operational purposes,” he noted.
For inquiries and reporting, citizens can reach DIG Frank Mba at 07025000383 and AIG Election Benneth Igwe at 09085000029. The general control room numbers are 08077773721 and 08037646272.
The police have activated a joint control room manned by officers and relevant agencies engaged in the electoral process to enhance communication and response capabilities.
With these measures in place, the police aim to ensure that the upcoming election proceeds smoothly, allowing citizens to exercise their rights in a secure environment.
