By Augustine Ehikioya
To ensure hitch-free forthcoming local government elections slated to hold in Delta State on 13/07/2024 the Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda has ordered massive deployment across the State.
It is to give electorates in Delta State the opportunity to exercise their right.
A statement made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA) by SP Edafe Bright, Police Public Relations Officer said that the Command in synergy with other sister agencies has deployed massively across the State, all polling units, RACs, collation centres, and DSIEC offices to ensure a hitch and also protect the electorates, and DSIEC officials.
It added “Marine Police have equally been deployed to the Waterways to ensure that that area too is peaceful during the election.
“There will be restriction of vehicular movement from 0800hours (8AM) to 1500 hours (3PM) on 13/07/2024, only officials on emergency and essential duties which include accredited election monitors and observers, will be allowed passage during this time
“NABTEB examination students are also exempted from this restriction of movement order. While regretting the inconveniences this will cause, members of the public are therefore advised to adhere to this instruction as anyone found wanting will be made to face the full wrath of the law.
“The ban on VIP escorts during the election will also be enforced, they are therefore advised not to move with their security details on Election Day, as any officer found wanting will be arrested and sanctioned accordingly.”
The CP, the statement said, also advised all non-state actors (vigilante, anti-cult volunteers, hunters etc.) that they will not be playing any role whatsoever during the elections, so they are to steer clear of the polling units and the entire election process, as any of them found meddling in the election process will be decisively dealt with.
“While wishing residents in the State a hitch-free election, it’s pertinent to note that the success of this election to a large extent, lies on how the electorate conducts themselves.
“The CP therefore urges all residents to be law-abiding, and rest assured that the command will not compromise in carrying out its primary responsibility of ensuring the protection of life and property, as well as the preservation of public tranquillity before, during, and after the elections.
“The following dedicated phone lines are available to the public to reach the command, as a quick response contact for any complaint or distress situation during the election exercise:
“CONTROL ROOM NUMBERS: 08036684974, 0811485600, 08025666914”
