The Ekiti State Police Command has announced a statewide restriction on vehicular movement on Saturday, the day scheduled for the governorship election.
According to the Command, the restriction will be in force from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and will apply to both intra-state and inter-state movement across all roads and highways in the state.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, the measure was described as part of wider security arrangements aimed at preventing violence and ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
The Command explained that the restriction is intended to curb the movement of political thugs and criminal elements who may attempt to disrupt the election.
It further stated that the order covers all forms of transport, including private vehicles, commercial buses, trucks, tricycles, and motorcycles. Travellers passing through Ekiti State were advised to use alternative routes during the restriction period.
However, the police clarified that candidates sitting for national examinations will be exempted and allowed to move freely to their examination centres.
Also exempted are essential service providers, including INEC officials, accredited journalists, election observers, medical personnel, and emergency responders, provided they carry valid identification and clearance tags.
The Command added that emergency medical movement will be permitted where necessary.
It also warned that VIP movement with armed escorts to polling units and collation centres would not be allowed.
Security agencies and members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) will remain the only authorised personnel to provide security at election venues.
The police urged residents to comply fully with the directive, noting that it is aimed at ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for voters.
Commissioner of Police for the election, Dr. Abayomi Shogunle, also called on residents to turn out and vote peacefully while cooperating with deployed security personnel.
He assured that adequate security arrangements had been made before, during, and after the election.
Residents were encouraged to report suspicious movements or security concerns to nearby police stations or the emergency line provided by the Command.