By Ayodele Popoola

As Ondo State gears up for its governorship election on Saturday, 16 November, the Nigeria Police Force has outlined stringent measures to ensure law and order, including a total ban on unauthorised security activities and movement during the election.

Speaking with journalists at the police headquarters in Alagbaka, Akure, on Friday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, emphasised that the ban on aides, escorts, and unauthorised or quasi-security agencies would be strictly enforced.

This move, he noted, is aimed at curbing interference and ensuring a level playing field for all participants in the electoral process.

Violators of these regulations, the police warned, would face severe legal consequences.

The restrictions, which include a movement ban from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday (tomorrow), are part of broader efforts to maintain peace and order during the polls.

Adejobi advised residents of the state to comply with the directive and make necessary preparations to avoid disruptions to their activities.

He disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has also ordered aerial and waterway patrols to complement the deployment of ground personnel across polling units.

The Force PRO stressed that these measures are designed to ensure security in all parts of the state, particularly in areas that may be vulnerable to disruption.

Earlier, the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Sylvester Abiodun Alabi, tasked with overseeing the election, directed Commissioners of Police to intensify monitoring and enforcement of these rules in their designated Local Government Areas.

The police reiterated that unauthorised groups or individuals attempting to operate under the guise of security will not be tolerated.

The police further urged citizens to report any suspicious activities to designated control rooms, which will remain operational throughout the election period.

This proactive measure, the police stated, is essential to safeguarding the credibility and transparency of the electoral process.