The Kwara State Police Command has issued an order restricting vehicular movement across all 16 Local Government Areas in the state during the local council elections set to take place on Saturday, September 21, 2024. This directive is intended to maintain security and ensure the smooth conduct of the electoral process.
In a statement released on Friday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Victor Olaiya, the command emphasized that residents should utilize the provided emergency contact numbers — 0703 206 9501, 0812 527 5046, 0803 709 8886, 0807 825 5661 — to report any complaints, irregularities, or suspicious activities at polling units. The police assured the public that officers would be on standby to respond to any concerns or issues that arise during the election.
The statement highlighted that the movement restriction is a necessary measure to guarantee the security of voters and election officials, and to prevent any attempts to disrupt the voting process. The Police Commissioner reiterated his commitment to ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and fair election while safeguarding the lives and properties of citizens throughout the state.
In a related development, Faith Ojeifo, the Customs Area Controller of the Kwara Area Command, urged officers deployed for election duties to remain neutral and apolitical, maintaining professionalism in their conduct throughout the election period.
The Kwara State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) also appealed for the safety and protection of journalists and election observers covering the election. The NUJ emphasized the importance of ensuring that media personnel can carry out their duties without any threats to their security.
Additionally, Mohammed Baba, Chairman of the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC), confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been finalized for the election. He reported that electoral materials have been successfully distributed to all 16 Local Government Areas in preparation for the polls, assuring the public that the commission is ready for a smooth and credible electoral process.
