IGP orders movement restriction on Saturday

The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, has ordered the restriction of all forms of vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation, from 12 am to 6 pm on Saturday in all states where elections will be conducted, The PUNCH reports.

The PUNCH reports that Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled to hold on March 18, 2023 (Saturday).

Baba said those on essential services such as officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, electoral observers, accredited media and observers, ambulances responding to medical emergencies, firefighters, amongst others are exempted from the restriction.

The police boss gave the directive in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, obtained by our correspondent on Thursday.

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He further noted that the directive excludes the Federal Capital Territory, as no election is being conducted therein.

Adejobi said, “Similarly, the IGP reiterates the ban on all security aides to VIPs and escorts from accompanying their principals and politicians to polling booths and collation centres during the election. State-established and owned security outfits/organizations, quasi-security units, and privately-owned guard and security outfits are also barred from participating in election security management.

“The IGP, therefore, urges all citizens to be law-abiding during and after the elections even as he assures that all necessary security arrangements have been emplaced to ensure they exercise their franchise unhindered.”

The IGP also urged the general public to contact the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters via 08033440189 (DIG Operations), 08033027731 (AIG FEDOPS), and 08034040439 (CP Elections), the ‘NPF Rescue Me App’ on Android and ios, and via the NPF Rescue Me Emergency Toll-free line on 08031230631, to request emergency security response.

Meanwhile, the FPRO also added that other election situation room numbers which have been shared on the NPF’s social media platforms will be repeatedly released by concerned State Police Commands for necessary emergency contact.