Ondo poll: FRSC deploys 1,500 personnel, restricts vehicular movement

The Federal Road Safety Corps, on Thursday, announced the deployment of 1,500 personnel to ensure a smooth conduct of the Ondo State governorship election scheduled for November 16, 2024.

The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, approved this deployment as part of broader measures to collaborate with other security agencies in enforcing compliance with vehicular movement restrictions on election day.

In a statement issued by the Assistant Corps Marshal and Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, the FRSC emphasised the importance of maintaining order throughout the election process.

The deployment includes 25 patrol vehicles, seven tow trucks, and six ambulances strategically positioned to assist with traffic control, remove road obstructions, and respond to emergencies.

The Corps Marshal urged the deployed officers to exhibit the highest level of professionalism and respect the rights of all voters.

He warned against any actions that might infringe on democratic rights, stressing the need for a peaceful and orderly election.

As preparations for the election continue, the FRSC has called on the electorate to comply with the vehicular movement restrictions and cooperate with officials to facilitate a free and fair electoral process.

The statement read, “As part of efforts put in place to ensure smooth conduct of the forthcoming Ondo State Gubernatorial election scheduled by the electoral umpire to hold on 16 November 2024, the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, has approved the deployment of 1,500 operatives, and ordered them to collaborate with other security agencies to enforce compliance on restrictions of vehicular movement.

“The directive issued by the Corps Marshal also mandated the Personnel to clear obstructions from the roads, carry out rescue operations in case of emergencies, and maintain orderliness in polling booths.

“In the same vein, adequate mobilisation has also been made for operational tools, including deployment of 25 patrol vehicles, seven tow trucks, as well as six ambulances to strengthen enforcement of restrictions during the entire process of the election.

“He warned the personnel deployed to play an active role in the democratic exercise. While emphasising the need to exhibit the highest sense of professionalism, the Corps Marshal also admonished them to avoid any act that could lead to abuse of the rights of electorates.”