Police Restrict Movement In Rivers Ahead Of Saturday Bye-Election
•By Admin
PORT HARCOURT – THE Rivers State Police Command has announced a restriction of movement in Ahoada East and Khana Local Government Areas on Saturday, February 21, ahead of the Rivers State House of Assembly bye-elections.
Public Relations Officer for the state Police Command CSP Grace Iringe-Koko in a statement on Friday stated that the restriction will take effect from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., aimed at ensuring a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election.
Iringe-Koko further disclosed that security personnel will be deployed across the affected areas, including polling units, major roads, and other strategic locations, to prevent violence, electoral malpractice, and other criminal activities.
The state police spokesperson advised residents to comply fully with the restrictions and avoid gatherings near polling centres, as well as refrain from carrying weapons or suspicious items.
She reaffirmed the position of the State Commissioner of Police, stressing
According to her, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, has warned that anyone who flouts the directive or attempts to disrupt the electoral process will face arrest and prosecution.
The CP also called on political parties, candidates and their supporters to comply fully with the Electoral Act and other applicable laws throughout the exercise.
He urged parents and guardians to warn their children against allowing themselves to be used to foment unrest before, during or after the polls.
The Commissioner of Police assured residents that the Command is collaborating closely with other security agencies to maintain a secure environment, enabling eligible voters to exercise their franchise freely and without fear of intimidation.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, psc, mnips, further advises all political parties, candidates, and their supporters to shun violence and adhere strictly to the provisions of the Electoral Act and other relevant laws guiding the conduct of elections.
“The cooperation of residents is highly required to ensure a peaceful and successful bye-election in the affected constituencies. The Police and other security agencies remain committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all law-abiding citizens to exercise their civic rights without fear or intimidation.”
•INDEPENDENTNG.