The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Kanayo Uzuegbu, has announced a large-scale deployment of personnel and resources to ensure peaceful council elections on September 21.
Uzuegbu also imposed restrictions on human and vehicular movement in the state from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on election day, allowing exceptions for those providing essential services, as well as media practitioners, election officials, and accredited observers.
A statement from the state’s police public relations officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, noted that the restriction applies to armed security personnel assigned to VIP protection duties. The Commissioner emphasized that no security personnel should escort VIPs to polling stations.
He stated that the security management for the elections will be a collaborative effort among all security agencies in the state.
“The Command is warning that electoral violence of any kind will not be tolerated before, during and beyond the polls.
“The Command is cautioning political parties and their stalwarts to conduct themselves orderly and in line with the election guidelines provided by the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC).
“Unrepentant criminal elements that may want to foment trouble during the elections should steer clear, as the security forces are geared up to deal decisively with such criminals.
“Parents and guardians should dissuade their children and wards from being used as thugs to disrupt the elections, as anyone caught will be made to face the full weight of the law,” he said.
The commissioner advised the electorate to go out and exercise their franchise in an orderly manner.
“Residents should promptly report any criminal acts or electoral infractions to the nearest police station or security agent.
“They can call the Command’s emergency hotlines: 08032003702; 08098880172; 08086671202 or send emails to [email protected],” he said.
(Vanguard)
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