The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a complete ban on all vehicular movements across roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation in Ondo State on Saturday, 16th November, in preparation for the governorship election.
The restriction will be in place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on election day, ensuring that the process remains smooth and free from disruptions.
In a statement released on Thursday, Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, explained the details of the restriction and its exceptions.
While the movement ban applies to the general public, essential services such as ambulances, accredited media personnel, fire services, and other recognized agencies are exempt from this order.
Additionally, the IG has imposed a ban on security aides and VIP escorts, preventing them from accompanying their principals to polling stations and collation centres.
This measure aims to maintain order and prevent any potential disruptions during the voting process. Adejobi also emphasized that unauthorized vehicles will not be permitted to use sirens on election day.
“As part of the security framework, there will be a restriction of all vehicular movements on roads, waterways, and other means of transportation from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day, except for those on essential services, such as ambulances, media officials, fire services, and other accredited media,” Adejobi said.
The police spokesperson further clarified that security personnel, as well as quasi-security agencies, will be strictly prohibited from operating during the election.
Special provisions will be made for elderly citizens, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and individuals with disabilities to ensure they can access polling stations without any hindrances.
“Special consideration will also be extended to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those with mobility challenges to ensure polling stations remain accessible,” Adejobi added.
To coordinate the security efforts, the IGP has appointed DIG Sylvester Abiodun Alabi as the overseeing officer for the election security operations.
Alabi will be supported by AIG Bennett Igweh and CP Tunji Disu, who have been designated to handle specific responsibilities related to the election.
“In preparation for the elections, the IGP has deployed DIG Sylvester Abiodun Alabi as the coordinating DIG for the elections, tasked with overseeing the implementation of the police security strategies to maintain law and order throughout the electoral period, while AIG Bennett Igweh, mni, and CP Tunji Disu are deployed as AIG and CP Elections, respectively,” Adejobi explained.
Adejobi also called on citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could threaten the integrity of the election process.
He reiterated the police’s commitment to ensuring a safe and democratic environment for the election, with a focus on collaboration with other security agencies.
“The police will also work with the military and other federal security agencies, as collaborative efforts from all stakeholders are vital to ensuring that the elections are conducted fairly and peacefully,” he concluded.
