The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Suleiman Abba, has ordered that, “On no account should uniformed private/government security agencies and voluntary organisations such as Boys Scout, Vigilante Group, Boys Brigade, Peace Ambassador, Man’O War etc, be seen in uniform within 300metres of a Polling unit”.
The IGP in a statement issued yesterday by Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) Emmanuel C. S. Ojukwu, restated the restriction of vehicular movement during the general elections on 28th March, 2015 and 11th April, 2015, respectively.
The restriction will be from 8.00am to 5.00pm on both election days.
While warning politicians and VIPs not to go to polling units on the day of the election with armed orderlies, the IGP said the use of siren, revolving lights, tinted glasses by unauthorised citizens would not be allowed.
“The Inspector-General of Police wishes to reassure the public of the commitment of the Force to the provision of round-the-clock security before, during and after the general elections for the teeming citizens of the country.
In the same vein, citizens are reminded of their civic responsibility of obedience to all laws of the State and thus advised to conduct themselves for free, fair and violence-free elections.” The statement said
For its part, the Department of State Security (DSS) advised all registered voters to go out and exercise their civic responsibility, saying security would be guaranteed.
The DSS in a statement issued yesterday by its Deputy Director Public Relations (DDPR), Marilyn Ogar, said “it is imperative to remind all eligible voters to be law abiding and security conscious while exercising their franchise.
“Equally, they should remain vigilant in crowded environments before, during and after the elections and abide by all stipulated guidelines emplaced to ensure peaceful conduct.
“Voters are advised to be wary of persons in loose or bulky midriff clothings, which are inappropriate for the weather, look out for unattended bags, luggage, dustbins, strange containers and other suspicious items,” the statement said.
It added that, “All vehicles, motorcycles, tricycles and bicycles must be parked far away from the polling stations. All forms of trading should be discouraged, suspicious persons, activities and movements should be promptly reported to security agents.
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