Ekiti State Local Government Election: Police Ensure Stringent Security Measures, Enforce Movement Restrictions
The Ekiti State Police Command has affirmed its commitment to providing robust security measures throughout the state during the local government election scheduled for Saturday, December 2. Commissioner of Police, Mr. Dare Ogundare, has issued directives to Area Commanders, DPOs, Heads of Tactical, and Intelligence Units to deploy ample personnel at polling units and identified flashpoints to ensure the safety of citizens, protect election materials, electoral officials, and guarantee a free, fair, and credible election.
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abutu Sunday, the Commissioner of Police announced a restriction on vehicular movements across the state from midnight on Friday, December 1, 2023, to 4 pm on Saturday, December 2, 2023. Exemptions were granted to essential services such as SIEC Officials, Accredited Electoral Observers, ambulances responding to medical emergencies, firefighters, media personnel, and Candidates/Officials of the ongoing National Examination Council (NECO).
The restriction order aims to create a safe, secure, and conducive environment for the election. Residents and travelers from neighboring states were advised to plan their movements accordingly to avoid any inconvenience during the election period. The Commissioner urged citizens to abide by the law, ensuring that eligible voters participate without fear of intimidation or attack.
Commissioner Ogundare cautioned deployed personnel to maintain professionalism, avoid corrupt practices, and warned against criminal elements, hoodlums, and political thugs, emphasizing that the police would take decisive and ruthless actions against those attempting to cause mayhem. He provided dedicated phone lines for residents to call in case of emergencies during the election.
