The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has issued directives for a substantial deployment of security personnel and the enforcement of movement restrictions, including a ban on VIP aides, escorts, and state security outfits, for the upcoming 2024 run-off and bye-elections scheduled across 26 states on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

In an effort to ensure a secure and transparent electoral process, the IGP has ordered the restriction of vehicular movement from 12 a.m. to 6 p.m. on election day, with exceptions for essential services such as INEC officials, accredited media, medical emergencies, and firefighters. The affected states include Ebonyi, Yobe, Kebbi, Lagos, Ondo, Taraba, Benue, Borno, Kaduna, Plateau, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Cross River, Delta, Enugu, Jigawa, Katsina, Adamawa, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Kano, Nasarawa, Niger, Oyo, Sokoto, and Zamfara.

The IGP has also imposed a ban on all security aides to VIPs and escorts during the election. State-established security outfits and privately owned security organizations are prohibited from participating in election security management.

These measures aim to prevent interference or intimidation during the electoral process, safeguarding the integrity of the elections and ensuring equal participation for all citizens.

The IGP urges political parties, candidates, and supporters to adhere to electoral laws and conduct themselves responsibly. Any attempt to disrupt the electoral process will be met with the full force of the law.

In a related development, the IGP has condemned the killing of two traditional rulers and the abduction of school pupils and teachers in Ekiti State. He has deployed AIG Abiodun Asabi to Zone 17 Akure, along with additional personnel and assets, to address the security challenges in the region.

The NPF assures the public that every necessary measure will be taken to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.