Rivers by-election: Police restrict movement in affected areas
Ahead of by-election in Ahoada East and Khana State House of Assembly constituencies in Rivers state, police have restricted movement in the affected areas. Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers State, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, said the restriction of movement will take effect from 1200 hours on Saturday […]
Ahead of by-election in Ahoada East and Khana State House of Assembly constituencies in Rivers state, police have restricted movement in the affected areas.
Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers State, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, said the restriction of movement will take effect from 1200 hours on Saturday to 1800 hours of same date.
She said the command has deployed personnel to forestall any breakdown of law and other criminal activities capable of disrupting the electoral process.
She said, “In preparation for the election and in order to ensure a peaceful, free, fair, and credible, election exercise, the Police have issued a restriction of movement within and enviros of Ahoada East and Khana Local Government Areas.
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“The restriction of movement will take effect from 1200hrs on Saturday to 1800hrs of same date.
“During this period, there will be massive deployment of security personnel across the two LGAs with intention to forestall any breakdown of law and order and to ensure the protection of lives and properties before, during, and after the election.”
The statement added that security operatives would be stationed at strategic location to prevent violence, electoral malpractice and any form of criminal activities.
It advised the general public to comply strictly with the order and avoid unnecessary gatherings around polling units
“Members of the public are therefore advised to comply strictly with the restriction of movement order, avoid loitering or gathering unnecessarily around polling units.
“Refrain from carrying weapons or any suspicious items, report any suspicious movement or activities detrimental to the election process and conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with the electoral laws.”
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, called on 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.
“He warns that any individual or group found violating the restriction order or engaging in acts capable of disrupting the peace will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.”
“The Commissioner of Police also calls on parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against being used as political instruments of violence or disorder during the election process.
“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.”