FRI SEPT 20 2024-theGBJournal| President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on all stakeholders in Edo State governorship elections to conduct themselves peacefully and sportingly.
The President’s call comes amidst the unveiling of comprehensive security measures to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.
The election is scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024.
The President implored the governorship candidates, political parties, and supporters to respect the democratic process and the people’s will, a process he says he believes in the voters’ ability to make informed decisions about their future leaders.
President Tinubu emphasised that democracy thrives on civility, tolerance, patience, and respect for the rules of the game.
He notes that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has committed to conducting a free and fair election and urges all stakeholders to work together to ensure a successful and peaceful process.
The President commends the governorship candidates and political parties for their campaigns, which have focused on issues that matter most to the people of Edo State, including improving livelihoods, promoting economic growth, and contributing to national development.
He urges all citizens in the state to remain peaceful and respectful throughout the voting process. He encourages them to resolve any disagreements amicably through the constituted authorities.
In addition, President Tinubu expresses unwavering confidence in the professionalism and integrity of security agencies and INEC officials. He urges them to remain impartial and avoid any actions that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
Meanwhile, in preparation for the election, the IGP has ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day.
Exceptions will be made for essential services, including accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders.
To maintain the integrity of the electoral process, the IGP has implemented a ban on all security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centres.
Unauthorized security personnel and quasi-security outfits are prohibited from operating during the election, and the use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles is strictly forbidden to ensure a calm environment for voters.
Furthermore, the IGP has mandated that special attention be afforded to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, aged, and those with mobility challenges, ensuring that polling stations in both urban and rural settings are accessible to all.
The Inspector-General of Police, through the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) for Edo Gubernatorial Election, DIG Frank Emeka Mba, mni, has appealed to citizens to refrain from making prank calls to control room and designated help numbers, highlighting that text messages are more effective for operational purposes.
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