Edo Poll: IGP Orders Movement Restrictions, Releases Hotlines

Ahead of the governorship election in Edo State on Saturday, the Inspector- of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has announced comprehensive security measures to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process and ordered restrictions of movement.

Police Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said in a statement that the IGP has ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day.

He said exceptions will be made for essential services, including accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders.

The Force PRO also said, “To maintain the integrity of the electoral process, the IGP has implemented a ban on all security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centres. Unauthorised security personnel and quasi-security outfits are prohibited from operating during the election, and the use of sirens by unauthorised vehicles is strictly forbidden to ensure a calm environment for voters.”

Furthermore, the IGP has mandated that special attention be afforded to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, aged, and those with mobility challenges, ensuring that polling stations in both urban and rural settings are accessible to all.

Also, the IGP, through the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) for Edo Gubernatorial Election, DIG Frank Mba has appealed to citizens to refrain from making prank calls to Control Room and designated help numbers, highlighting that text messages are more effective for operational purposes.

The designated election lines for inquiries and reporting to DIG Election Frank Mba – 07025000383 and AIG Election AIG Benneth Igwe, 09085000029, while the general control room numbers are 08077773721 and 08037646272.

The police said the already activated joint control room is manned by police and relevant agencies engaged in the electoral process.