Local Government Elections: Police Enforce Movement Restrictions, Deploy Security Teams

Lagos Police Impose Full Movement Ban for July 12 LG Elections, Bolster Security Presence

In preparation for the local government elections set for Saturday, July 12, 2025, the Lagos State Police Command has announced a complete ban on vehicular movement throughout the state between 3:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on election day.

The announcement, made via a public statement on Wednesday, is part of efforts to maintain peace, order, and safety during the polls across all 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas (LCDAs) in Lagos.

According to the command, the measure was adopted in collaboration with other agencies under the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES). Authorities say the restriction is crucial to protecting voters, electoral officers, ad hoc staff, and the integrity of the election process.

“This restriction will be strictly observed in every part of Lagos State,” the statement emphasized.

Lagos Police Extend Movement Ban to Roads and Waterways, Unveil Additional Election Security Measures

According to a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the movement restriction will cover all roads and waterways within Lagos State’s jurisdiction during the July 12 local government elections.

In accordance with provisions of the Electoral Act, the Lagos Police Command also outlined a set of security protocols aimed at ensuring a smooth electoral process. These include a ban on armed escorts and private security aides at both polling units and collation centres, as well as a prohibition on the unauthorized use of sirens and vehicles with obscured license plates.

The police clarified that only essential service vehicles—such as ambulances, fire and rescue trucks, and official patrol vehicles belonging to recognized security agencies under the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES)—will be exempt from the movement ban.

Police Outline Exemptions to Lagos Election Day Movement Ban, Issue Firm Warning to Potential Disruptors

Authorities have clarified that exceptions to the movement restrictions during the July 12 local government elections in Lagos include emergency medical personnel, accredited Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) officials, registered election observers, and journalists bearing LASIEC-issued identification.

The Lagos State Police Command emphasized that anyone found moving without proper identification will be detained, investigated, and prosecuted in accordance with the Electoral Act.

Commissioner of Police CP Olohundare Jimoh called on Lagosians to cooperate with security agencies and conduct themselves with civility throughout the electoral process.

“Residents are encouraged to approach the polls peacefully and responsibly,” he urged.

The police also delivered a stern message to those intending to cause unrest.

“Miscreants, thugs, and troublemakers are strongly warned to stay away from polling units and collation centres,” the statement declared, stressing that law enforcement will act decisively against any form of violence or disruption.

In addition, political parties and parents were advised to educate their members and wards, cautioning them against engaging in intimidation, aggression, or electoral disturbances.