The Edo State Police Command has announced the deployment of 7,825 personnel and a restriction of movement for the by-elections scheduled for Saturday.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is conducting by-elections for the Edo Central Senatorial and Ovia Federal Constituency seats.
The elections are a result of Senator Monday Okpebholo’s emergence as the governor of Edo State in the September 2024 gubernatorial election and Dennis Idahosa’s election as deputy governor, which vacated the Ovia Federal Constituency seat.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Moses Iyamu, stated that the deployed personnel are drawn from Zone 5 headquarters, the state command, Police Mobile Force, Special Intervention Squad, and the Election Monitoring Team from Force Headquarters, Abuja.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, said the deployment aims to ensure security before, during, and after the polls, guaranteeing the safety of voters, electoral officials, and materials, while maintaining law and order.
The command has imposed a restriction of movement from 12:00 midnight on Friday to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday in all areas where elections will be held. SP Iyamu stated this measure is to prevent interference, disruption, or any breach of peace during the electoral process. Only essential workers with valid identification will be permitted passage during these hours.
Commissioner Agbonika warned that anyone violating the order or engaging in disruptive acts will face the full force of the law. He assured residents of the police’s neutrality and professionalism and encouraged eligible voters to exercise their civic duty without fear, stating that adequate safety measures have been implemented.
