By Sunny A. David, Awka

The Nigeria Police have prohibited vigilante groups and other non-official security outfits from taking part in Saturday’s Anambra South Senatorial District bye-election.

Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Godwin Eze has been deployed as the Supervising Officer for the polls, officially assuming duty on Friday. According to Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the move follows directives from the Inspector-General of Police.

Eze has taken full control of security arrangements for the election and stressed that only accredited security personnel will be allowed on election duty. Vigilantes, hunters, and other quasi-security operatives are banned from any form of involvement.

To ensure safety and prevent electoral offences, vehicular movement will be restricted from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the following areas: Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Orumba North, Orumba South, Ekwusigo, Aguata, Ihiala, Onitsha North Constituency 1, and Awka South (home to the INEC headquarters).

Ikenga explained that the restriction is a preventive measure to curb crime, reduce the risk of violence, and protect voters, election officials, and security operatives.

The police have assured residents of their readiness to safeguard the process and urged them to remain law-abiding. For emergencies or complaints, the public can reach the AIG on 08023407772, the Command’s Control Room on 07039194332, or the Police PPRO on 08039334002.