Saying: Restriction of movement, especially of vehicles, during elections in Nigeria is very important Except for those on essential services like fire fighters, ambulances and the likes, there has to be restrictions to guarantee a safe, secure, and conducive environment for the conduct of the elections.
In preparation for the last election held on Saturday, February 25, 2023, across all states of the federation and the federal capital territory, the IG, Usman Baba ordered a restriction of all forms of vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation, from 12 am to 6 pm on election day with the exception of those on essential services such as INEC officials, electoral observers, ambulances responding to medical emergencies, firefighters, etc.
Restriction is important to ensure
1. adequate management of the public order.
2. voter protection.
3. effective policing.
4. prevent criminal elements and hoodlums from meddling in the election.
There was also a ban of security aides and escorts from accompanying their principals to polling booths and collation centres during the election.
Only security personnel specifically assigned to election duties are to be seen within and around the designated election booths and centres.
Also banned, was the unauthorised use of sirens, revolving lights, covered number plates and tinted glasses.
EDSIEC can not pretend to be on the side of the voters by removing restrictions that we are used to on election day and create a porous environment that will facilitate intimidation by the ruling PDP in Edo State.
Apart from the security angle, voters may decide to go about their different businesses and not perform their civic responsibility of coming out to cast their votes.
APC must join me to condemn the no restriction of movement by EDSIEC released on 31st of August, 2023.
I am Barr. Mutairu Hope Aliu, (APC CHIEFTAIN FROM OKPELLA, ETSAKO EAST).
I Support Sunday Akiotu Ekpetika for Chairman, Etsako East LG