Ahead of Saturday’s bye-election in the Ibadan North Federal Constituency, the Oyo State Police Command has pledged a peaceful, transparent, and well-secured electoral process.
Speaking through a press statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Adewale Osifeso, said the Command has put comprehensive measures in place to ensure a hitch-free exercise.
“We are fully prepared for the bye-election and want to assure the public of a credible, secure and fair electoral process,” Osifeso noted, stressing that the Command has engaged with critical stakeholders in the build-up to the polls, including the signing of a peace accord by political aspirants.
He added that in conjunction with other security agencies, a show of force was recently organised to deter troublemakers and underline the Command’s readiness.
The peace accord, signed under the coordination of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security and the Independent National Electoral Commission, came with a set of directives to guide conduct on election day.
These include restrictions on the presence of unauthorized security outfits, a ban on political campaigning or display of party symbols at polling units, prohibition of alcohol sales around voting areas, and a warning against financial inducement of voters.
“Any individual found with weapons or objects intended for violence will face immediate legal consequences,” Osifeso warned.
To further ensure safety, the police announced that movement would be restricted from midnight until 5pm in Ibadan North and parts of its neighbouring local government areas – Ibadan North East, Ibadan South-West and adjoining boundaries.
Residents were also advised to take note of observation points and road closures in areas such as Agbarigbo-Jembewon Road, Adamasingba-Danax Intersection, Idi-Ape Junction, Ojoo Road, Ajibode Junction, Apete Road by Customs Barracks, and Eleyele-Sango Road, among others.
According to the Command, “high-octane patrols, intelligence-driven raids, stop-and-search operations, and continuous surveillance” will be deployed throughout the metropolis.
Parents, guardians, and community leaders were urged to caution their wards and discourage them from being used to foment trouble.
“We are committed to a peaceful electoral process and call on all stakeholders to join us in safeguarding democracy,” Osifeso said.
