Edo LG Poll: Police Impose Statewide Movement Restriction Ahead of July 11

By Ezekiel Kagbala

The Edo State Police Command has announced a statewide restriction of movement from 12:00 midnight to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, as part of heightened security measures for the forthcoming local government elections across the state's 18 local government areas.

The restriction, which affects both vehicular and pedestrian movement, is aimed at ensuring a peaceful, orderly and credible electoral process while safeguarding voters, election officials and sensitive electoral materials.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Moses Yamu (or use the current PPRO's official name if different), the Command disclosed that the security operation would be carried out in collaboration with other security agencies to prevent any breakdown of law and order before, during and after the polls.

According to the statement, only officials of the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), accredited election observers, duly accredited journalists, security personnel, emergency responders and other essential service providers on official election duty will be exempted from the movement restriction.

The police warned that anyone found violating the directive or engaging in activities capable of disrupting the electoral process would face arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law.

"The restriction forms part of comprehensive security measures put in place by the Command in collaboration with other security agencies to guarantee a peaceful electoral process, protect voters, electoral officials and sensitive materials, as well as prevent any breakdown of law and order," the statement said.

The Command added that security personnel have been strategically deployed across all 18 Local Government Areas to enforce compliance and respond swiftly to any security threats during the election.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, reassured residents of the Command's commitment to conducting a peaceful and secure election, urging eligible voters to come out and exercise their civic responsibility in line with the guidelines issued by EDSIEC.

He emphasized that the Police, alongside sister security agencies, would remain professional, impartial and resolute in ensuring that the local government elections are conducted in an atmosphere free from violence, intimidation and electoral malpractice.

Residents are therefore advised to conclude all non-essential movements before the commencement of the restriction and cooperate fully with security personnel to ensure a successful and peaceful electoral exercise across Edo State.