Residents of Enugu metropolis on Saturday complied to the restriction of human and vehicular movement in the ongoing Local Government Election in the state. It was observed that most roads remained empty of vehicular movement, while markets and shops were closed.
It was also observed that security men on election duties were seen in strategic locations within the metropolis. Responding, the Police Public Relations Officer in Enugu State, SP Daniel Ndukwe, noted 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”.
“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 to it today. We call on all in the state to be calm, cast their votes peacefully and maintain decorum throughout the process,” he said.
It would be recalled 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 Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) is conducting elections into the 17 Chairmanship and 260 Ward Councillorship positions in the state.
Seven political parties that signed the Peace Pact for the election on Monday are currently participating in the election.
