The Anambra State Police Command has announced a total restriction of vehicular movement within and outside the state during the November 8 governorship election.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the restriction will take effect from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Election Day.
Ikenga stated that the order applies to all roads across the state, including interstate highways connecting Anambra with neighboring states. The decision, he said, was reached unanimously during a meeting of Security Service Commanders held on November 5, 2025, at the Police State Headquarters in Awka.
“The decision is aimed at preventing the movement of political thugs and other criminal elements who may attempt to disrupt the electoral process,” Ikenga explained. “This measure is crucial to maintaining order and ensuring that the election is conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner.”
The restriction, according to the police, covers all forms of motorized transportation. This includes private cars, commercial buses, trucks, tricycles, motorcycles, and shuttle vehicles. Residents and travelers are therefore advised to make adequate arrangements ahead of time and avoid unnecessary movements during the specified period.
The police further advised interstate travelers to seek alternative routes during the restriction period to avoid inconvenience.
Ikenga emphasized that only persons on essential duties will be exempted from the restriction. These include designated officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accredited journalists and election observers, medical personnel, emergency responders, and other essential service providers.
However, all exempted individuals are required to carry valid identification cards and clearance tags at all times for verification purposes.
“The police will be deploying personnel across strategic locations within the state to enforce compliance,” Ikenga added. “Any unauthorized vehicle found on the road during the restriction hours will be impounded, and the occupants may face legal consequences.”
The spokesperson appealed to residents for understanding and cooperation, stressing that the restriction is a temporary but necessary security measure designed to safeguard lives and property.
He assured the public that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, have put in place comprehensive strategies to ensure that the election is free, fair, and devoid of violence.
“We urge the good people of Anambra State to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security operatives, and go out on Election Day to exercise their civic rights without fear,” Ikenga said.
The Anambra governorship election is expected to be closely contested, with heightened attention on maintaining peace and credibility throughout the process. The police command reiterated its commitment to upholding law and order, ensuring that the exercise proceeds smoothly and safely across all local government areas in the state.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
