Enugu State Limits Movement for Saturday Elections

The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Bitrus Giwa, has ordered that people and vehicles should not move around the state from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

The state police spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, shared this information in a statement on Thursday.

This restriction comes after the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission announced that the local government chairmanship and councillorship elections will take place on Saturday.

Mr Ndukwe, a superintendent of police, mentioned that only those on essential duties and accredited election officials are allowed to move during this time.

The police commissioner also said that police officers will be deployed across the 17 local government areas in the state for the elections.

He warned that quasi-security groups are not allowed to help with election security. He also said that armed security personnel on VIP escort duties should not take VIPs to polling units.

Security Measures

Mr Giwa reassured residents and voters that there will be enough security before, during, and after the elections.

He said the police will work with other security agencies to ensure safety.

The police chief encouraged eligible voters to come out and vote.

He cautioned political parties, candidates, and their supporters against any actions that could disturb the peaceful conduct of the elections.

“Violators will face the full weight of the law,” he warned about electoral offenders.

The police have shared mobile numbers for voters to call in case of security issues or electoral violence.

Enugu Government's Order

The Enugu State Government has also announced a similar restriction ahead of the local council election on Saturday.

In a statement on Thursday, the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Chidiebere Onyia, said there will be a ban on vehicle movement and other transport options across the state from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday.

Mr Onyia, a professor, explained that this measure is to ensure peaceful and smooth conduct of the elections.

“Accordingly, there shall be no vehicular movement on the roads or other forms of transportation within the state during the restriction period, except for those on essential election-related and emergency services,” he said.

The SSG listed those allowed to move during the restriction, including ENSIEC officials, accredited election staff, security personnel, accredited observers, and journalists.

Health workers, ambulance staff, firefighters, and others authorized to perform essential duties are also included.

Mr Onyia urged residents, political parties, candidates, and supporters to follow the restriction and act peacefully and responsibly during this time.

“The people of Enugu State are encouraged to exercise their civic duties peacefully and according to the guidelines from ENSIEC and other authorities,” he added.

The SSG mentioned that security agencies have been told to strictly enforce this order and maintain law and order during the elections.

“The state government regrets any temporary difficulties this restriction may cause,” he said.