Elections: Gombe police ban hunters, vigilante groups from providing security
….. Movement limited for non INEC, essential workers till 6pm
Ahead of the forthcoming 2023 General Elections, the Gombe State Police Commissioner Cp Oqua Etim has ordered the restriction of all forms of vehicular movement, as well as the participation of security outfits without legal backing.
He noted that the ban subsists from 12am to 6pm on Saturday, adding that “except INEC officials, Electoral observers, Firefighters, Ambulances for emergencies and other essential services exempted from such order,” Etim said.
The Commissioner also warned politicians, on the need to discontinue the use of their retinue of security details to polling unit, adding that neglect of the order would bear consequences.
He added, “In the same vein, the Command warns all VIP aides and escorts to refrain from accompanying their principals and other politicians to the polling booth as that will attract stringent disciplinary measures.”
Speaking about the involvement of vigilante, hunters in electioneering process, Etim added that they would be arrested, disclosing that the order was to ensure peaceful elections, “Also banned from participating in the Electoral process are quasi Security outfits such as vigilante groups, hunters, security outfits, and any other voluntary organisation, without legal backing should not form part of the exercise, as such anyone found in uniform flouting this directive will be arrested and arraigned before the court.
“The order is to ensure a safe, secure and enabling environment for the smooth conduct of the exercise, the command wishes to once again enjoin all eligible electorates to be law-abiding and turn out to exercise their franchise,” Etim added.
