By Tony Adibe
Residents of Enugu Capital Territory on Saturday complied with the restrictions on human and vehicular movement in the ongoing Local Government Elections in the state. It was learnt that seven political parties, who signed the Peace Accord for the election on Monday, are currently participating in the election.
NewsBits observed that most roads remained empty of vehicular movement, while markets and shops were under lock and key. Also, NewsBits observed that security men on election duty positioned themselves in strategic locations within the Coal City.
Commenting on the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in Enugu State, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said that security agencies had maintained that the restriction of movement must work to ensure a smooth and hitch-free election. Ndukwe said that security agencies had begun strict enforcement of the restriction order and would “definitely close all shops and penalize motorists found wanting”.
He said: “So far, the security situation has been generally peaceful, and the election process is ongoing smoothly as anticipated. We are hopeful it will remain peaceful till 4:00p.m. when the process will be over.
“From our observation, the restriction of movement has been generally complied with, and we will definitely deal with those who act contrary today. We call on all in the state to be calm, cast their votes peacefully and maintain decorum throughout the process.”
NewsBits recalls that the police, on behalf of other security agencies, ordered the restriction of human and vehicular movements across the state from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on election day, except for persons on essential duties and duly accredited election officials.
The Enugu State Government had directed that vehicular movement be restricted during the period of the election between 6:00am to 4:00pm. Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, signed the order restricting vehicular movement.
