The Delta State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has issued a warning to VIP escorts, local vigilantes, anti-cult squads, and other non-state actors ahead of the weekend’s local government polls in the state.
In an official statement signed by the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on Friday, the force command warned the groups to avoid polling units.
Accordingly, the command has provided specific telephone numbers for reporting complaints or distress situations.
The statement noted that there will be a restriction on vehicular movement from 0800 hours (8 AM) to 1500 hours (3 PM) on 13/07/2024 (Saturday).
Only officials on emergency and essential duties, such as accredited election monitors and observers, will be permitted to pass during this period.
The police said NABTEB examination students are also exempted from this movement restriction.
The statement added: “While regretting the inconveniences this will cause, members of the public are therefore advised to adhere to this instruction as anyone found wanting will be made to face the full wrath of the law.
“The ban on VIP escorts during the elections will also be enforced. They are therefore advised not to move with their security details on Election Day, as any officer found wanting will be arrested and sanctioned accordingly.
“The CP also advises all non-state actors (vigilante, anti-cult volunteers, hunters etc.) that they will not be playing any role whatsoever during the elections, so they are to steer clear of the polling units and the entire election process, as any of them found meddling in the election process will be decisively dealt with.
“While wishing residents in the state a hitch-free election, it’s pertinent to note that the success of this election, to a large extent, lies on how the electorate conducts themselves.
“The CP therefore urges all residents to be law-abiding, and rest assured that the command will not compromise in carrying out its primary responsibility of ensuring the protection of lives and property, as well as the preservation of public tranquillity before, during, and after the elections.”
The Delta State Government has granted permission for employees in the State Public Service to end their workday at 12 noon on Fridays.
This decision was announced by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in an official statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu.
“This is to enable public servants in the state to participate fully in the Local Government elections coming up on Saturday, July 13, 2024, as part of their civic responsibilities.
“However, workers in essential services such as the health sector, security, and media, who would need to render services should adopt a flexible schedule to enable them to exercise their franchise,” the statement reads.
