As the people of Edo State prepare for the governorship election on Saturday, the Nigerian Police Force has advised voters to return home immediately after casting their ballots. Deputy Inspector General of Police, Frank Mba, during an appearance on Channels Television’s special edition of Politics Today on Friday, emphasized the importance of maintaining order during the election.
Mba urged non-accredited individuals to avoid being on the streets after voting. “Tomorrow, it is important for parents and for everybody to know that if you are not accredited to carry out any of the functions related to the election, you should not be out on the street. Just come, go out there, perform your civic duties, cast your vote, and return to your home,” he said.
Regarding preparations, Mba assured the public that the police were ready for the election, saying, “We have done our deployments, and we have taken care of all our concerns. We have made provisions for tomorrow, and we are good to go.”
Crackdown on Vote Buying
Mba acknowledged that vote buying remains a significant challenge, but he promised to address the issue. “Vote buying is one of the most difficult offences to actually police and manage,” he noted. While many instances occur out of the public eye, Mba vowed that any violations detected by security forces would be dealt with.
Movement Restrictions and Security Measures
In a bid to maintain the integrity of the electoral process, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered a restriction on movement throughout Edo State on election day. From 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation will be restricted, with exceptions made for essential services such as accredited media, electoral officials, and emergency responders.
Additionally, the IGP has banned the use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles and prohibited security aides and escorts from accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centers. Unauthorized security personnel and quasi-security outfits will also be barred from operating during the election.
The Stakes in Edo
Voters in Edo State are set to elect a new governor, with 17 candidates vying for the position at Dennis Osadebay House in Benin City.
