Kwara LG Poll: CP orders movement restriction

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Kwara State Police Command has announced an 18-hour restriction on vehicular movement for the upcoming local government elections scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024.

This measure, ordered by Commissioner of Police Victor Olaiya, will be in effect from 12:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday.

In a statement released on Friday by the command Public Relations Officer, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi emphasised that the restriction aims to ensure a secure and orderly electoral process.

She stated that excoptions will be made for individuals providing essential services, accredited electoral officials, authorised media personnel, electoral observers, and emergency responders, noting that armed security personnel on VIP protection duties are prohibited from escorting their clients to polling stations.

The statement reads, “The Kwara State Police Command wishes to inform the public that there will be restriction of all vehicular movement. This will be imposed from 12:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday, 21st September 2024, in relation to the upcoming Local Government Elections. This measure has been put in place to ensure the security and smooth conduct of the electoral process.

“However, exceptions will be given to persons rendering essential services, accredited electoral officials, authorized media personnel, electoral observers and emergency responders. Armed Security Personnel on VIP protection/escort duties have been restricted from escorting their VIPs to the polling boots.”

Residents are urged to comply with this directive, with warnings that violators will face legal consequences.

“We urge all residents to comply with this directive, and we emphasize that any individual found violating the curfew will face the full wrath of the law.

“Your cooperation is crucial to maintaining peace and order during this important civic exercise,” the statement added.

However, the police reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and order during the elections and have provided emergency contact numbers for reporting any irregularities at polling units.

“In the event of any complaints, observations, or irregularities at polling units, or if you have any information to share, please contact the command via the following emergency lines: 0703 206 9501, 0812 527 5046, 08037098886, 08078255661 (SMS or WhatsApp Messages only).

“The Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Police Command, CP Victor Olaiya psc(+) reaffirms his dedication to safeguarding kwara State and its citizens; ensuring the L.G elections is fair and peaceful,” Ejire-Adeyemi noted.