Police Impose Movement Restrictions Ahead of Rivers By-election

As the by-election for the Ahoada East and Khana State House of Assembly constituencies approaches in Rivers State, the police have instituted movement restrictions in the affected regions.

CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the Police Public Relations Officer for Rivers State, made this announcement in a statement on Friday, indicating that the movement restrictions will commence at noon on Saturday and end at 6 p.m. the same day.

Iringe-Koko further noted that security personnel have been deployed to ensure the maintenance of law and order and to prevent any criminal activities that could impede the electoral process.

She stated, “To ensure a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election, the Police have implemented a movement restriction within and around Ahoada East and Khana Local Government Areas.”

The restriction will be in effect from 12:00 hours to 18:00 hours on Saturday.

“During this timeframe, there will be a significant deployment of security forces across the two Local Government Areas aimed at preventing any disturbances and ensuring the safety of lives and property before, during, and after the elections,” she added.

The statement also informed that security operatives will be positioned at key locations to deter violence, electoral fraud, and other criminal activities.

The public has been urged to comply with these orders strictly and to refrain from congregating unnecessarily near polling stations.

Members of the community are advised to adhere strictly to the movement restrictions, avoid lingering or assembling around polling units, and not carry weapons or suspicious items. They are encouraged to report any unusual activities that could threaten the election process and to behave peacefully in accordance with electoral laws.

The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, called upon all political entities, candidates, and their supporters to renounce violence and comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act and other legal guidelines pertaining to elections.

He cautioned that any individual or group breaching the movement restrictions or engaging in actions that disrupt peace would face arrest and prosecution. Furthermore, he urged parents and guardians to advise their children against being used as tools for violence or disorder throughout the election process.

“Cooperation from residents is crucial to ensure a peaceful and successful by- election in the affected constituencies. The Police and other security agencies are dedicated to creating a safe environment for all law-abiding citizens to exercise their civic duties without fear or intimidation,” he concluded.