Police Limit Movement in Seven LGAs for By-election

The police in Rivers State have announced that movement will be restricted in seven local government areas. This is ahead of the Rivers South-East Senatorial District by-election set for Saturday.

Blessing Agabe, the police spokesperson, shared this information in a statement on Friday from Port Harcourt.

Agabe, who is an assistant superintendent of police, said the restriction will cover Andoni, Eleme, Gokana, Khana, Oyibo, Opobo/Nkoro, and Tai local government areas.

She explained that this step is part of security measures to ensure the election is peaceful, orderly, and credible.

The restriction will affect the movement of people, vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles. It starts at midnight on Friday and ends at 6 p.m. on Saturday.

Agabe mentioned that “the restriction is intended to enhance public safety, protect electoral officials and materials, and prevent electoral malpractice during the by-election.”

She added that accredited officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission, security personnel on duty, and emergency service providers are not affected by the restriction.

Fire service personnel and other essential service providers authorized for official duties during the election are also exempt.

Agabe warned that anyone who breaks the restriction order or disrupts the electoral process will face legal consequences.

She pointed out that offences like electoral violence, vote-buying, voter intimidation, thuggery, and other illegal activities will lead to sanctions.

The Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Olugbenga Adepoju, has urged political parties, candidates, supporters, and residents in the affected areas to remain peaceful and respect the law.

Adepoju also called on everyone to work with security agencies for a successful election. “The success of the election depends on the collective commitment of all citizens to uphold the rule of law and promote a culture of peace,” he said.

He assured residents that enough security measures are in place with the help of other security agencies.

“The measures are designed to protect lives and property, safeguard electoral materials, and guarantee a peaceful, free, and fair election,” he added.

He reaffirmed the police's commitment to maintaining order and ensuring that eligible voters can exercise their rights safely.

He urged everyone to keep the peace and respect the law during the election.