24th March, 2015
The Inspector General of Police, Suleiman Abba has issued an order on the restriction of movement ahead of the presidential election slated for March 28 and has appealed to Nigerians to cooperate with the police.
In a statement issued by Emmanuel Ojukwu, Force Public Relations Officer, Abuja, he said: “As part of efforts to ensure adequate security in the forthcoming general elections across all the Federation on Saturday 28 March, 2015 and 11 April, 2015, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Suleiman Abba, has ordered the restriction of vehicular movements as follows: Saturday 28th March, 2015, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. only and Saturday 11 April, 2015 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. only.
He noted that: “this total restriction of movements order applies to all, except for Ambulances, Fire service trucks and others on essential duties.
“Consequently, travellers and citizens who intend to use roads on these days and hours are advised to plan alternative times for their travelling,” the statement said.
While expressing his regrets over the inconveniences that road users and the general public may encounter as a result of this restriction, the IGP “appeals for the understanding and cooperation of the entire citizenry, as the restriction is done in the nation’s interest.”
“The IGP assures that adequate security logistics and manpower have been strategically deployed to achieve a most conducive electioneering atmosphere. In this regard, policemen for election duty have been properly trained, briefed and sensitized on their roles as stipulated in the Electoral Act.”
“They are expected to be professional, non-partisan, civil but firm in their approach and relation to the public.”
He enjoined citizens to remain vigilant and report all suspicious movements or dealings to appropriate police authority.