…High chances of threat, exhibition of criminality to free poll, say Police
By Frank Momoh
With less than 24 hours to the Anambra governorship polls, the Nigeria Police Force, has said that as part of measures aimed at protecting the sanctity of the electoral process, the Inspector General of Police (IG), Mr. Usman Alkali Baba, has ordered the restriction of vehicular movement in and out of Anambra State from 11:59PM on today (Friday), 5th November, 2021 to 11:59PM on Saturday, 6th November.
According to the Force PRO, Mr. Frank Mba, in a statement, said the IG noted that the restriction order has become necessary following pointers from the election security threats assessments conducted by the Force which indicate a high likelihood of infiltration by criminally-minded individuals to Anambra State, before, during and after the polls.
The IGP further noted that the measure would also avail security forces a firm grip of the State to checkmate the movement of political thugs and touts, and prevent the free flow, circulation and use of illicit arms and hard drugs throughout the period and beyond.
The Police boss enjoined INEC officials, accredited observers and journalists, and other authorized officials to go about their lawful duties as it relates to the elections, provided they observe all relevant rules guiding their deployment including the visible display of their accreditation tags. He acknowledged that Police officers and other security personnel deployed for the election will be appropriately supervised to ensure they carry out their responsibilities in the most humane, firm and professional manner especially to emergency service providers such as fire-fighters and ambulance services.
According to Mba, Alkali Baba, enjoined citizens particularly motorists and travelers who may want to use the routes within Anambra State during the period of the restrictions to seek alternative routes and see the inconveniences as part of sacrifices toward the collective sustenance of our democracy.
He called on citizens in the State to go out en-masse on the election day and exercise their franchise without any fear or apprehension as the Force and other security agencies are already on ground to ensure a safe and conducive environment for the elections.