The Nigeria Police Force has called on residents of Edo State to exercise their civic duty by voting in the upcoming governorship election on Saturday, but to return home immediately afterwards.
Speaking on election security, Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Frank Mba, emphasized that only accredited election monitors would be allowed on the streets. “If you’re not accredited to participate in the election, you shouldn’t be out on the streets,” Mba said in an interview on Channels Television. “Cast your vote and return home; it’s your civic duty.”
Mba also announced restrictions on vehicular movement from 6 am to 6 pm on election day, explaining that the curfew period had been adjusted in response to complaints from citizens.
The police aim to ensure a peaceful and orderly election, especially as sympathizers of political parties from other states are present in Edo due to the off-cycle nature of the election.
In related news, heavy rainfall in the early hours of Saturday delayed the arrival and distribution of electoral materials in parts of the Edo Central Senatorial District. This district, which includes Esan South-East, Igueben, Esan North-East, Esan West, and Esan Central Local Government Areas, is expected to be a key battleground as both the PDP and APC candidates hail from this area.
As of 7:50 am, election materials and officials had not yet arrived at most polling units, with many residents staying indoors due to the rain.
Logistical challenges were also reported in Edo South Senatorial District, where election materials and officials were still at the RAC center after 8 am. Some ad hoc officials expressed dissatisfaction, stating they had not been paid, and refused to move to their polling units until they received payment.
The situation has delayed the start of the election in several areas, but officials are working to resolve the issues.
