AHEAD of the Ondo State gubernatorial election on November 16, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has banned Very Important Persons(VIP) escorts at polling centres and a 12-hour restriction on vehicular movement.
According to a statement by the Nigeria Police Force spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Thursday, November 14, the restriction on all vehicular movement will be enforced across roads, waterways, and other transportation modes from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day.
The statement noted that exceptions will be made for those on essential services, such as ambulances, fire services, accredited media personnel, and other critical service providers.
The IGP also emphasised that security aides and escorts for VIPs will not be permitted at polling units or collation centres, aiming to prevent any undue influence or disruptions during the election.
It further noted that unauthorised security and quasi-security personnel will be barred from participating in any election activities, and the use of sirens by unapproved vehicles is strictly prohibited.
The statement added that the IGP also appointed Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sylvester Abiodun Alabi as the coordinating Deputy Inspector General for the election, with Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Bennett Igweh and Commissinoer of Police (CP) Tunji Disu designated as AIG and CP Elections respectively.
“Designated election lines have been established for inquiries and reporting incidents. These lines will be publicized as soon as possible.
“The Nigeria Police Force urges citizens to report all suspicious activities that may threaten the integrity of the electoral process and reaffirms its commitment to fostering a safe and democratic environment as the state gears up for the elections. The Police will also be working with the military and other Federal security agencies as collaborative efforts from all stakeholders are vital to ensuring that the elections are conducted fairly and peacefully,” the statement added.
The ICIR reports that residents of Ondo state will head to the polls on November 16 to choose their next governor in an election that has seen heightened security measures and political tensions.
Data from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) showed 2,053,061 people registered to vote in the Ondo gubernatorial poll, including 58,708 new voters added during the ongoing voter registration drive.
According to INEC, a total of 18 political parties have put candidates forward for the election.
The candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, will be slugging it out with other notable candidates in the race for the highest seat in the Sunshine State.
Usman Mustapha is a solution journalist with International Centre for Investigative Reporting. You can easily reach him via: umustapha@icirnigeria.com. He tweets @UsmanMustapha_M