The Rivers State Police Command has imposed a temporary restriction of movement in seven local government areas ahead of the Rivers South-East Senatorial District by-election scheduled for Saturday. The command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, an assistant superintendent of police, disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Port Harcourt.
Affected Areas and Timing
The restriction will affect Andoni, Eleme, Gokana, Khana, Oyibo, Opobo/Nkoro and Tai local government areas. According to Ms Agabe, the measure is part of security arrangements aimed at ensuring a peaceful, orderly and credible electoral process. The restriction on the movement of persons, vehicles, tricycles and motorcycles will commence at midnight on Friday and end at 6 p.m. on Saturday.
Purpose of the Restriction
Ms Agabe stated that “the restriction is intended to enhance public safety, protect electoral officials and materials, and prevent electoral malpractice during the by-election.” She explained that the measure would also provide a secure environment for eligible voters to exercise their civic responsibilities without fear or intimidation.
Exemptions
Accredited officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security personnel on election duty and emergency service providers are exempted from the restriction. Other exempted individuals include fire service personnel and other essential service providers duly authorised to perform official duties during the election.
Warning Against Violations
The police spokesperson warned that anyone found violating the restriction order or engaging in acts capable of disrupting the electoral process would be dealt with according to the law. She listed electoral violence, vote-buying, voter intimidation, thuggery and other unlawful activities as offences that would attract sanctions.
Call for Peace and Cooperation
Ms Agabe said the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Olugbenga Adepoju, had called on political parties, candidates, supporters and residents of the affected local government areas to remain peaceful and law-abiding. Mr Adepoju also urged stakeholders to cooperate with security agencies to ensure a successful election. “The success of the election depends on the collective commitment of all citizens to uphold the rule of law and promote a culture of peace,” he said.
Security Arrangements
The police commissioner assured residents that adequate security arrangements had been put in place in collaboration with other security agencies. “The measures are designed to protect lives and property, safeguard electoral materials and guarantee peaceful, free and fair election,” he added. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring that eligible voters exercise their constitutional rights in a safe and secure environment. He urged residents to uphold peace and respect the law throughout the electoral process.
