LG poll: Police restrict vehicular movement, beef up security in Kwara

The Kwara State Police Command has directed restrictions on vehicular movement in the 16 Local Government Areas of the state during the LG council elections scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024.

A statement signed on Friday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, on behalf of the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Victor Olaiya, noted that the restriction was imposed to ensure security and smooth conduct of the electoral process in the state.

“The Kwara state Police Command wishes to inform the public that there will be restriction of all vehicular movement. This will be imposed from 12 am to 6 pm on Saturday, September 21, 2024, in relation to the upcoming local government elections.

“This measure has been put in place to ensure the security and smooth conduct of the electoral process. However, exceptions will be given to persons rendering essential services, accredited electoral officials, authorised media personnel, electoral observers and emergency responders.

“Armed security personnel on VIP protection/escort duties have been restricted from escorting their VIPs to the polling boots. We urge all residents to comply with this directive, and we emphasise that any individual found violating the curfew will face the full wrath of the law.”

The command stated that residents can contact its emergency lines — 0703 206 9501, 0812 527 5046, 08037098886, 08078255661, in the event of any complaints, observations, or irregularities at polling units, or the sharing of any information.

The statement added that the police boss has “reaffirmed his dedication to safeguarding the state and its citizens; ensuring the L.G elections is fair and peaceful.”

Meanwhile the Customs Area Controller, Kwara Area Command, Faith Ojeifo, urged officers deployed for the election in the state to remain apolitical.

Also, the state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, called for maximum protection and safety of journalists and observers that would be assigned for the coverage of the elections.

The Chairman, Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission, Mohammed Baba, said that all is set for the conduct of the election, adding that electoral materials had been distributed to all the 16 LGs of the state.