The Ekiti State Police Command has announced a ban on vehicular movements on Saturday, June 20, for the 2026 governorship election. The restriction, effective from midnight to 6:00 PM, aims to ensure a peaceful and violence-free electoral process.
Details of the Movement Restriction
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abutu Sunday, stated that the restriction applies to both inter-state and intra-state vehicular movements across all roads in Ekiti State and inter-state highways. The measure is part of comprehensive security arrangements to prevent political thugs and criminal elements from disrupting the election.
Vehicles Affected
- Private cars
- Commercial vehicles
- Trucks
- Tricycles
- Motorcycles
All forms of motorized transport are prohibited during the restriction period. Inter-state travelers planning to pass through Ekiti are advised to use alternative routes.
Exemptions from the Ban
SP Sunday listed categories exempted from the restriction, provided they carry valid identification and clearance tags:
- Students taking national examinations
- INEC staff and ad-hoc staff
- Accredited journalists
- Local and foreign election observers
- Medical personnel
- Emergency responders
- Essential service providers
Medical emergency movements are also allowed during the restriction period.
Background
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun distributing sensitive materials for the election. Registered voters in Ekiti increased from 987,647 in 2023 to 1,059,360, with a PVC collection rate of 97.1%.
Incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji faces 13 challengers in the election across 16 Local Government Areas. Four female candidates are vying for the deputy governor position, highlighting diversity in the race.
The police urged residents to comply with the measure, emphasizing that it is designed to ensure a peaceful atmosphere for voters to exercise their rights freely.
