- * Says Measures Aimed At Protecting The Sanctity Of Electoral Process
By Celestine Okafor (Editor-in-Chief)
As part of measures aimed at protecting the sanctity of the electoral process in the Saturday, November 6, 2021, Anambra State Gubernatorial Elections, the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, has ordered the restriction of vehicular movement in and out of Anambra State from 11:59 pm on Friday, 5th November 2021 to 11:59 pm on Saturday, 6th November 2021.
The IGP, in a statement on Thursday by the Police Force PRO, CP Frank Mba, 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 firefighters and ambulance services.
The IGP enjoined citizens, particularly motorists and travelers who may want to use the routes within Anambra State during the restrictions to seek alternative routes and see the inconveniences as part of sacrifices toward the collective sustenance our democracy.
He called on citizens in the State to go out en-masse on Election Day and exercise their franchise without any fear or apprehension as the Force and other security agencies are already on the ground to ensure a safe and conducive environment for the elections. NNL.
