As Lagos prepares for its pivotal local government elections this Saturday, July 12, the state police command has announced a sweeping restriction of all vehicular movement across the state—from 3:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on election day.
The dramatic move is part of intensified efforts to ensure a peaceful, credible, and orderly poll across all 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
In a public statement issued Wednesday, the police said the directive was agreed upon by members of the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) and is aimed at safeguarding voters, electoral officials, and the integrity of the process.
“This restriction will be strictly enforced across all roads and waterways within Lagos State,” the command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated emphatically.
Who Is Affected and Who’s Not
The restrictions will not apply to essential service providers, including ambulances, fire services, and security patrol vehicles. Also exempted are accredited LASIEC officials, election observers, media professionals with official tags, and medical emergency personnel.
But the warning is stern:
“Anyone caught violating this directive without proper identification will be arrested, investigated, and prosecuted in line with the Electoral Act,” the police stated.
Zero Tolerance for Political Intimidation
In line with national electoral laws, the police also announced a ban on armed escorts and security aides at polling stations and collation centres. Also prohibited: the use of sirens, covered number plates, and any form of intimidation near voting areas.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, issued a firm warning to political actors and their loyalists:
“We will not tolerate any form of disruption or violence. Miscreants, hoodlums, and political thugs should steer clear of polling units and collation centres. The full weight of the law awaits anyone who breaches the peace.”
Political parties and parents were urged to warn their members and wards against fomenting trouble. Residents were also encouraged to report suspicious activities to emergency numbers provided by the command.
Peace Is the Message
While security will be tight, the tone from authorities remains one of caution and civic responsibility.
“We urge all Lagosians to remain calm, law-abiding, and peaceful as they exercise their democratic right,” CP Jimoh said.
The Lagos police command stressed its unwavering commitment to a free, fair, and credible election, encouraging citizens to support law enforcement efforts on election day.
Summary
- Total movement ban from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. across Lagos on Saturday, July 12
- Applies to all roads and waterways
- Only essential workers and accredited personnel exempt
- Ban on armed escorts, sirens, and intimidation at polling units
Police warn troublemakers: Stay away or face the law
