In preparation for the upcoming Local Government Area (LGA) elections in Edo State scheduled for Saturday, September 2, 2023, Governor Godwin Obaseki has affirmed that there will be no restriction of movement within the state on election day. He assured commuters traveling through the state of safe passage.
Governor Obaseki made this announcement following a State Security Council meeting held at the Government House in Benin City, the capital of Edo State. He emphasized the commitment to providing adequate security for the elections and urged voters to turn out in large numbers to cast their votes for their preferred candidates. The governor assured that the state would remain peaceful during the electoral process, thanks to the presence of security agencies.
In his words: “We reviewed the security situation, beginning with the forthcoming September 2nd local government election in Edo State. The local government election will be held on Saturday and one unique thing about the election is that movement is not restricted. People will be allowed to go about their normal activities after voting. Movement within the State and commuters going through the State will not be restricted.”
He emphasized the importance of a secure environment for the election: “The security must be high. That is why we have met with the various security agencies to look at their readiness and preparation for the election.”
Governor Obaseki called for peaceful participation in the electoral process, reminding the public that “Election is not war.” He expressed confidence in the level of sensitization and readiness among the electorate.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Dankwara, also assured that security agencies were fully prepared for the local government election. He affirmed that all security agencies were aligned in their readiness and coordination, promising a peaceful electoral process.
With these assurances, Edo State residents can look forward to exercising their democratic rights in a secure and orderly environment during the forthcoming local government elections.
