Rivers bye-election: Police restrict movement in two LGAs

By John Ogunsemore

The Rivers State Police Command has imposed restriction of movement ahead of bye-elections scheduled for Ahoada East and Khana State House of Assembly constituencies on Saturday, February 21.

Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Grace Iringe-Koko disclosed this in a Friday statement.

She said restriction of movement within and environs of Ahoada East and Khana Local Government Areas was to ensure a peaceful, free, fair, and credible, election exercise.

“The restriction of movement will take effect from 1200 hrs on the 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.

“Security operatives will be stationed at strategic locations, polling units, and major roads to prevent violence, electoral malpractice, and other criminal activities capable of disrupting the electoral process,” the statement reads.

The command spokesperson urged the public 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.

Meanwhile, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, advised 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 warned that any individual or group found violating the restriction order or engaging in acts capable of disrupting the peace would be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.

The commissioner also called on parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against being used as political instruments of violence or disorder during the election process.