The Ebonyi State Police Command has imposed a movement restriction across the state for Saturday’s Local Government elections, with security operatives deployed to polling units and strategic locations.
Commissioner of Police, Urunwa Okafor, announced the measures in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abakaliki by the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu.
The restriction will run from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on election day, with exemptions for essential and election-related personnel, including officials of the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC), accredited journalists, election observers, emergency service providers, and health workers. Such persons must carry valid identification and official accreditation for security clearance.
Ms Okafor confirmed collaboration with sister security agencies to ensure peaceful conduct across the state’s 13 Local Government Areas.
The police commissioner warned political actors and supporters against inflammatory rhetoric, provocative statements, or actions capable of undermining the electoral process, stressing that offenders would face the full weight of the law.
She urged eligible voters to conduct themselves peacefully, obey lawful instructions from security personnel, and shun violence or any conduct that could disrupt the polls.
Assuring residents of comprehensive security coverage before, during, and after the elections, the CP stated that the command was fully prepared to guarantee a hitch-free exercise.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities or security emergencies via the command’s emergency lines: 07064515001, 08033124839, or 08037928293.