The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Steve Yabanet, has announced a restriction of movement across the state on Saturday, October 5, 2024, ahead of the local government elections.
This directive, outlined in a statement by the state police command’s spokesperson, Catherine Anene, is aimed at ensuring a smooth, free, and fair electoral process by maintaining firm control over routes and movements that could disrupt the election.
According to the statement, police officers have been deployed across all 23 local government areas to ensure tight security during the election.
Part of the statement read, “The Commissioner of Police, Benue State, Steve H. Yabanet, has ordered the deployment of officers to all the 23 Local Government Areas of the state for the Local Government elections scheduled to hold on October 5, 2024.
“The CP emphasized the importance of securing lives and property during the election period and has directed all Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers to ensure that their jurisdictions are well secured.”
The police also warned officers stationed at polling units, collation centres, and other critical points to maintain professionalism and civility in the discharge of their duties. Other security agents involved in the election have been advised to follow suit.
“There shall be a restriction of movement within the state from 12 a.m. to 6 p.m. on October 5, 2024. This measure is to ensure full control of the routes and individuals that may attempt to disrupt the electoral process. Only officials on essential or emergency duties, who are duly identified, will be permitted access,” the statement added.
Yabanet also cautioned against any form of violence, intimidation, vote-buying, or other electoral offences, warning that such actions would not be tolerated.
The CP urged parents, guardians, traditional and religious leaders, as well as political party leaders, to advise their wards against engaging in any form of violence.
Assuring the people of a peaceful electoral process, the police chief encouraged voters to come out and exercise their franchise without fear of harassment or intimidation.
