The Nigerian police have announced a restriction of all forms of vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 12 am to 6 pm on Saturday, February 3, 2024. The restriction is part of the security measures to ensure peaceful conduct of the run-off and bye-elections scheduled to take place across 26 states.

High-stakes elections

The elections are seen as a test of the popularity and performance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2025 general elections. The elections will fill vacant seats in the National Assembly, state assemblies, and local councils.

Some of the hotly contested seats include the Surulere 1 Federal Constituency in Lagos State, where the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, resigned to become the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu. The APC and the PDP have fielded candidates to replace him.

Another key seat is the Plateau South Senatorial District, where the former Deputy Governor of the state, Ignatius Longjan, died in February 2023. The PDP is hoping to reclaim the seat from the APC, which won it in 2023.

Security challenges

The police stated that they aim to prevent any undue interference or intimidation during the electoral process by imposing movement restrictions. The Inspector General of Police, Okukayode Egbetokun, also ordered a ban on all security aides to VIPs and escorts from accompanying their principals and politicians to polling booths and collation centers during the election.

He reported that the police and other security agencies have deployed personnel to ensure the safety of voters, electoral officials, and materials. Also, he issued a warning that individuals attempting to disrupt the electoral process or violate established guidelines will face the full force of the law.

The police stated that they aim to prevent any undue interference or intimidation during the electoral process by imposing movement restrictions. He reported that the police and other security agencies have deployed personnel to ensure the safety of voters, electoral officials, and materials.

He conveyed confidence that the upcoming run-off and bye-elections will be conducted peacefully, transparently, and in accordance with democratic principles through collective efforts.

Local and international observers anticipate keenly contested and closely monitored run-off and bye-elections. Moreover, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured the public of its readiness to conduct credible and fair elections.

The commission said it has deployed adequate personnel and materials to the various polling units and collation centers. It also said it has adopted measures to ensure compliance with the COVID-19 protocols and guidelines.

The commission appealed to the voters to turn out in large numbers and exercise their franchise peacefully and responsibly. It also urged them to cooperate with the security agencies and electoral officials to ensure a smooth and successful electoral process.

Source: Punch