According to the statement, only essential services like INEC officials, accredited media, and emergency responders are exempted.
The Nigeria Police Force has announced the restriction of vehicular movement from 12am to 6pm in 26 states where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is conducting run-off and bye-elections on Saturday, February 3, 2024.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who announced the directive in statement issued through the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi also directed massive deployment of police operatives across the states to enforce ban on VIP (very important personality) aides, escorts, state security outfits from the election.
According to the statement, only essential services like INEC officials, accredited media, and emergency responders are exempted.
"The IGP also bans security aides to VIPs from polling booths and state-owned security outfits from election security management, aiming to prevent interference."
While calling on electorates to adhere to rule of law, the police chief assured of free exercise of voting rights, while emphasised the commitment to a secure electoral process.
The IGP, however, warned of legal consequences for disruptions of the election by anybody no matter how high.
"Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to specified authorities. Numbered to call: 08034040439 (CP Elections); 08031230631 (Toll Free); 08057000001, 08057000002 (Complaint Response Unit); you can also reach us at @ngpolice (Facebook); @PoliceNG (X); [email protected] (e-mail)."