The Edo State Police Command has deployed 7,825 personnel and announced a restriction of movement ahead of Saturday’s by-elections in Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency.
The elections were triggered by the emergence of Monday Okpebholo as Edo State governor in September 2024 and Dennis Idahosa as deputy governor, leaving their legislative seats vacant.
Police spokesman, SP Moses Iyamu, said the deployed officers were drawn from various formations, including Zone 5 Headquarters, the Police Mobile Force, Special Intervention Squad, and the Election Monitoring Team from Force Headquarters in Abuja.
According to him, the deployment is aimed at ensuring tight security before, during, and after the polls to safeguard voters, election officials, and materials while maintaining law and order.
A movement restriction will be in place from midnight Friday to 6:00 p.m. Saturday in all election areas, with exemptions only for essential workers carrying valid identification.
Iyamu warned that anyone violating the order or attempting to disrupt the process would face legal consequences. He assured residents of the police command’s neutrality and professionalism, urging voters to turn out without fear as adequate security measures had been put in place.
