Ahead of Saturday’s bye-election in the Rivers South-East Senatorial District, the Rivers State Police Command has announced restrictions on the movement of people and vehicles across seven local government areas in the state.
The police also warned that anyone who violates the order or engages in activities that could disrupt the electoral process, including violence, vote-buying, voter intimidation, or thuggery, will face legal consequences.
The election, organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission, is being held to fill the vacant seat left after the death of Senator Barry Mpigi in February.
In a statement released on Friday, police spokesperson Blessing Agabe, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, said the restriction will take effect from midnight on Friday, June 19, and last until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, election day.
According to the State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, the restriction is part of security measures designed to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and credible election.
The affected local government areas are Andoni, Tai, Khana, Gokana, Eleme, Oyigbo, and Opobo/Nkoro.
The police explained that the order is meant to enhance safety, protect electoral materials and officials, and prevent electoral malpractice while allowing voters to carry out their civic duties without fear or intimidation.
However, the restriction does not apply to INEC officials, security operatives on election duty, emergency responders, and other essential service providers.
The command cautioned that offenders will be decisively dealt with in line with the law, and urged political actors, supporters, and residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with security agencies for a smooth election process.
