As Nigerians brace for rerun and by-elections in 26 states tomorrow, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has mandated a strict prohibition of vehicular movement from 12.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. on Election Day.
The restriction applies to all forms of transportation in states where polls will occur, except for essential services.
Essential personnel permitted to move during this period include officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accredited media, electoral observers, medical emergency responders, and firefighters.
The affected states encompass Ebonyi, Yobe, Kebbi, Lagos, Ondo, Taraba, Benue, Borno, Kaduna, Plateau, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Cross River, Delta, Enugu, Jigawa, Katsina, Adamawa, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Kano, Nasarawa, Niger, Oyo, Sokoto, and Zamfara.
Additionally, the IGP has enforced a ban on all security aides accompanying VIPs and politicians to polling booths and collation centers during the elections.
According to ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the police spokesman, these measures aim to prevent interference or intimidation during the electoral process, ensuring fairness and equal participation.
Furthermore, at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) head office in Jos, Plateau State, tensions flared when the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) discovered its absence from the ballot papers for the rerun elections. PDP officials protested, highlighting their objection to the exclusion.
Meanwhile, in Lagos, INEC received sensitive materials for the upcoming Surulere Federal Constituency I by-election, indicating preparedness for the event. Twelve candidates from various parties will contest the election to fill the vacant seat.
Similarly, in Akwa Ibom and Cross River states, peace accords were signed among political parties and candidates, emphasizing commitment to peaceful conduct during the elections.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner for Akwa Ibom State, Isah Ehimeakhe, urged all parties to uphold the accord, ensuring a smooth electoral process.
In Cross River, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof Gabriel Yomere, affirmed readiness for the rerun and bye-elections, assuring stakeholders of a credible process.
The measures implemented by the IGP and the ongoing preparations by electoral bodies and stakeholders underscore the significance of maintaining peace and integrity in Nigeria’s electoral system.