Rivers State Commissioner of Police (CP) Olugbenga Adepoju has cautioned troublemakers against attempts to undermine security during the August 30 local government elections.
He gave this warning while assuring residents that adequate measures have been put in place to safeguard voters.
Speaking at a press briefing held on Tuesday, August 26, at the State Police Command Headquarters, Moscow Road, Port Harcourt, Adepoju disclosed that comprehensive security measures have been put in place to guarantee a hitch-free exercise.
According to him, officers have already been deployed across all local government areas, while sensitisation campaigns are ongoing to encourage public participation in the polls.
“We have deployed adequate security, manpower to ensure people come out to vote and the election is free, fair, and credible. Police, as the lead agency, will lead. All areas have been fortified,” Adepoju stated. “We are warning those who want to cause trouble to refrain.”
The police boss further revealed that raids on identified black spots have been intensified in the build-up to the election, with several arrests made to ensure the state remains safe.
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He clarified that security for the election will be strictly handled by the Police and the military, excluding vigilante groups.
Adepoju also confirmed that a joint security situation room has been established, complete with hotlines for residents to report any suspicious activity.
“All necessary government agencies and other sister agencies will participate. We have enough manpower; there will not be issues. If there are issues, we will contain them,” he assured.
The Commissioner announced a restriction of movement across the state from midnight until 6 p.m. on election day, with exceptions only for those on essential or electoral duty. Special passes and tags will be issued to authorised personnel.
He urged residents to comply with the restriction order and maintain peace before, during, and after the polls, stressing that the Police are fully prepared to tackle any security breach.
