The Ebonyi State Police Command has announced a restriction on vehicular and human movement across the state ahead of Saturday’s Local Government elections.
The restriction will take effect from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on August 22, when residents across the state’s 13 Local Government Areas are expected to vote.
The command has also commenced the deployment of security personnel to polling units and other strategic locations across the state to maintain order and protect voters during the exercise.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Joshua Ukandu, said the deployment was being carried out under the direction of the Commissioner of Police, Hope Okafor.
According to Ukandu, the command is working with other security agencies to provide adequate security and ensure eligible voters can exercise their franchise without intimidation or harassment.
The movement restriction does not apply to officials of the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission, accredited journalists, certified election observers, emergency medical responders, health workers, authorised security personnel and other essential service providers.
Those exempted from the restriction are required to carry valid institutional identification and official electoral accreditation for verification at security checkpoints.
Okafor also warned political leaders, party members and supporters against inflammatory statements or actions capable of disrupting public peace or undermining the electoral process.
She said individuals or groups found attempting to breach the peace or violate law and order would face immediate arrest and prosecution.
The Commissioner of Police urged voters to conduct themselves peacefully, obey lawful directives from security personnel and avoid any behaviour that could disrupt the exercise.
Okafor assured residents that security agencies were fully prepared to maintain peace before, during and after the elections and ensure a peaceful and hitch-free poll.
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