As Delta State prepares for the local government elections this Saturday, Commissioner of Police Abaniwonda Olufemi has announced a significant deployment of personnel to ensure a smooth and secure voting process.

In a statement released by the Command’s Spokesman, SP Bright Edafe, on Thursday in Asaba, the state capital, Olufemi emphasized the comprehensive measures being taken to safeguard the elections.

“The Commissioner of Police Delta State CP Abaniwonda Olufemi has ordered massive deployment across the state to enable electorates in Delta State to exercise their right,” the statement read. “The Command, in synergy with other sister agencies, has deployed massively across all polling units, RACs, collation centres, and DSIEC offices to ensure a hitch-free election and also protect the electorates and DSIEC officials.”

In addition to land-based security, the Marine Police have been deployed to the waterways to maintain peace in those areas during the election.

There will be a restriction on vehicular movement from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturday. Only officials on emergency and essential duties, including accredited election monitors and observers, will be allowed passage during this period. “While regretting the inconveniences this will cause, members of the public are therefore advised to adhere to this instruction as anyone found wanting will be made to face the full wrath of the law,” the statement added.

The ban on VIP escorts during the election will also be enforced. “They are therefore advised not to move with their security details on Election Day, as any officer found wanting will be arrested and sanctioned accordingly,” Olufemi warned.

The Commissioner also advised all non-state actors, such as vigilantes, anti-cult volunteers, and hunters, to steer clear during the elections. He stated that any of them found interfering with the election process would be decisively dealt with.

Olufemi urged all residents to remain law-abiding, assuring them of the police’s commitment to their primary responsibility of ensuring the protection of life and property.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Delta State local government elections, and follow our coverage for the latest news and developments.