As the local government elections approach in Lagos State, the police have announced a strict security operation aimed at preserving the integrity of the electoral process. Effective from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 12, all vehicular movement will be banned statewide, including on waterways, to prevent disruptions and violence.
The Lagos State Police Command, in coordination with the Interagency Consultative Committee on Elections Security (ICCES), issued the directive to cover all 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas. The police spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stressed that this measure is designed to “safeguard the election, the electorates, LASIEC officials and ad hoc staff and electoral processes.”
To enforce this, the police will prohibit armed escorts and security aides at polling units and collation centers. The use of sirens and covered number plates on vehicles will also be banned to prevent intimidation or unauthorized movement.
Only vehicles designated for essential services—ambulances, fire trucks, and ICCES patrol vehicles—will be allowed on the roads during the restriction period. Accredited election officials, observers, and media with LASIEC-issued tags are exempted from the ban.
The police warned that “anyone arrested without an identification tag will be investigated and prosecuted in line with the Electoral Act.” CP Olohundare Jimoh urged citizens to cooperate fully with security personnel and to maintain peace during the election, stating, “Lagos residents are urged to demonstrate peaceful disposition in observing their civic responsibilities.”
Potential troublemakers were cautioned to avoid polling units and collation centers, with the police affirming that “the full weight of the law” will be applied against offenders. Political parties and parents were also called upon to discourage violence and intimidation.
The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to a secure, safe, and credible election.