The Rivers State Police Command has announced temporary restrictions on human and vehicular movement across seven local government areas ahead of Saturday's by-election for the Rivers South-East Senatorial District. The measures are designed to protect voters, electoral officials, and election materials while promoting a peaceful voting process.
Movement Restriction Details
According to the police, movement will be restricted from midnight on Friday, June 19, 2026, until 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in the affected areas. The directive applies to Andoni, Tai, Khana, Gokana, Eleme, Oyigbo, and Opobo/Nkoro local government areas, where eligible voters will participate in the election.
The by-election is being organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to fill the vacant senatorial seat following the death of Senator Barry Mpigi in February.
Police Spokesperson Statement
Police spokesperson, Assistant Superintendent of Police Blessing Agabe, stated that the temporary restriction is part of comprehensive security measures to guarantee a peaceful, orderly, free, fair, and credible electoral process. She emphasized that the movement of persons, vehicles, and motorcycles within the affected areas will be restricted from 12:00 a.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026.
Exemptions from the Order
Accredited officials of INEC, security personnel on election duty, ambulance operators, fire service personnel, and other essential service providers will be allowed to move freely while carrying out official assignments. The police said the restriction is intended to protect electoral personnel and materials, prevent electoral offences, and provide a safe environment for voters.
Warning Against Electoral Offences
The command issued a stern warning against acts capable of undermining the election. Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju stated that any individual or group found violating the restriction order, engaging in acts capable of disrupting the electoral process, or participating in any form of electoral violence, vote-buying, voter intimidation, thuggery, or other unlawful activities will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law.
Adepoju appealed to political parties, candidates, supporters, and community leaders to conduct themselves peacefully throughout the election period. The police assured residents that extensive security arrangements have been put in place in collaboration with other agencies to safeguard lives, property, and electoral materials. Residents were also encouraged to report suspicious activities through official police communication channels.
Background
In related news, Tonye Cole recently withdrew from the APC governorship race to promote party unity ahead of the 2027 elections. This decision was made after consultations with APC stakeholders and national leadership, focusing on unity and collective progress. Cole urged supporters to maintain peace and support the party's leadership decisions going forward.
