IGP bars Amotekun, orders restriction of movement on election day

Ahead of the March 18 governorship and state assembly elections, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba, has barred state-established security outfits and privately-owned outfits from participating in election security management.

State-owned security outfits include the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards, the Amotekun Corps, and Ebubeagu, amongst others.

The police chief also ordered the restriction of all forms of vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation, from 12 am to 6 pm on election day.

Meanwhile, those on essential services such as officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), electoral observers, accredited media and observers as well as emergency responders are excluded.

“This directive excludes the Federal Capital Territory as no election is being conducted therein,” said Force Spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi.

“Similarly, the IGP reiterates the ban on all security aides to VIPs and escorts from accompanying their principals and politicians to polling booths and collation centres during the election.”

The IGP, however, urged all citizens to be law-abiding during and after the elections even as he assured Nigerians that all necessary security arrangements have been emplaced to ensure they exercise their franchise unhindered.