No movement restriction for Saturday’s LG polls, says Obaseki

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has assured our citizens of their safety during the upcoming Local Government Area (LGA) election, which is set to take place on Saturday, September 2, 2023.

This commitment to security was conveyed following a press briefing that took place after a meeting of the state Security Council held at the Government House in Benin City on Thursday.

Governor Obaseki emphasized that there will be no constraints on movement, and our people will have the freedom to travel within and through the state without any hindrance throughout the electoral process. He stated, “The local government election will be held on Saturday, and one notable aspect of this election is that there will be no restrictions on movement.

People will be able to carry on with their daily routines after casting their votes. Travel within the state and transit through the state will remain unrestricted.”

The Governor urged voters to participate en masse in choosing their preferred candidates, while expressing confidence in the readiness and preparedness of all security agencies involved in ensuring a secure electoral process.

“Enough preparation has been made to secure the people so that they can go to the polling unit, vote, and go home. If they need to come back and wait for the votes to be counted and the election declared, they can also do so, but it must be peaceful,” Governor Obaseki urged.

The state Commissioner of Police Muhammad Dankwara, also assured the public that security agencies were fully prepared and ready for the local government election.

Dankwara said that all security agencies were aligned in their commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral exercise.

“We are prepared for the election, and we are all on the same page with our sister security agencies, and surely the election will be very peaceful,” Dankwara affirmed.

He added that only eligible voters with proper identification will be allowed at polling units, and agents approved by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission will oversee the voting process.

The Police Commissioner reassured the public of the police’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, neutrality, and thoroughness in executing their duties before, during, and after the exercise.

Dankwara also issued a stern warning against the use of dangerous weapons during the local government elections, stressing that no weapons of any kind would be permitted at the voting arena.

Additionally, individuals or party representatives would not be allowed at polling units with political party logos or any form of political party identification. These measures are intended to maintain order and prevent violence during the election.

The local government elections are scheduled to take place in 4,519 polling units across 192 wards in the 18 local government areas of Edo State.