Ahead of the bye-elections scheduled for August 16, 2025, across 13 states, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has mandated heightened security measures to ensure a smooth and credible electoral process. Senior officers, including Assistant Inspector-Generals and Commissioners of Police, have been deployed to oversee operations.
The IGP has implemented a restriction on all forms of vehicular movement within affected Local Government Areas from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on election day. Essential service providers, such as INEC officials, accredited journalists, and emergency services, are exempt from this restriction.
Egbetokun has reaffirmed the ban on security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling units, emphasizing that only designated security personnel will manage the election environment. He highlighted the importance of deploying adequate operational logistics to ensure a peaceful election and reassured citizens of comprehensive security arrangements designed to protect their rights and ensure their votes count.
The states involved in these bye-elections include Anambra, Kano, Oyo, Taraba, Enugu, Adamawa, Edo, Jigawa, Kogi, Ogun, Zamfara, and Niger. The IGP has called on all personnel to adhere strictly to standard operational procedures and urged citizens to remain law-abiding throughout the election period.
This proactive approach aims to foster a safe electoral environment and reinforce public trust in the democratic process.
