Ahead of the local government elections in Jigawa State, the State Police Command has announced a restriction on all forms of vehicular movement starting from midnight on Friday, October 4, 2024, until 6 PM on Saturday, October 5, 2024. This directive, outlined by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, aims to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
In a statement released to PUNCH Online, DSP Adam emphasized that only vehicles involved in essential services will be exempt from this restriction. These include those belonging to the Jigawa State Independent Electoral Commission (JISIEC) officials, election observers, medical emergency ambulances, and fire services.
Political parties and their supporters were reminded that the ban on political thuggery and the use of weapons remains in effect. Any violation of this directive will result in arrest and prosecution. “Political parties and their followers intending to use weapons are advised to refrain and strictly adhere to the electoral process regulations,” DSP Adam warned.
The statement also highlighted that security aides and escorts are prohibited from accompanying their principals and politicians to polling units and collation centers. The command, in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders, will actively work to identify and arrest troublemakers, ensuring they face legal consequences.
“The police, as the lead law enforcement agency, will not tolerate any criminal activities that disrupt the electoral process,” Adam stated. Personnel deployed for the election have been instructed to act professionally, remain courteous, and avoid any form of corrupt practices.
The Command, under the leadership of CP AT Abdullahi, has assured citizens of their safety and encouraged them to participate in the elections. “We have made adequate security arrangements to ensure the process is peaceful,” Adam affirmed.
The local government polls in Jigawa are scheduled for Saturday. Similarly, Benue State has announced a statewide restriction of movement for its local government elections on the same day, with Governor Hyacinth Alia declaring Friday, October 4, as a work-free day.
