Lagos State Police Command has said it will enforce a complete ban on vehicular and waterway movement across the state from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, to ensure a peaceful local government election.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh, issued the directive through CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the measure will span all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas.
Police and partnering agencies under the Inter‑Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) have mobilized extensively to secure all polling stations and collation centers. The movement freeze applies to every road and waterway, reinforcing the command’s commitment to electoral integrity .
To eliminate undue influence, the command banned armed escorts, siren usage, and vehicles with covered number plates. These restrictions bar even private and state‑owned security outfits from accompanying VIPs to voting sites.
Only vehicles used for essential services are exempt. These include ambulances, fire engines, emergency responders, accredited staff of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), media professionals, and accredited observers, all of whom must display valid LASIEC identification tags to move freely .
The police urged the entire community to observe the law and support the security efforts. Anyone found without proper accreditation or tagging at election venues faces arrest and prosecution under the Electoral Act . The command also issued a stern warning to potential disruptors—politically motivated thugs or miscreants must stay away or face legal consequences .
Recognizing that medical emergencies and accredited movement are critical, the police adjusted from earlier timing in some statements to open exemptions clearly for health crises and international travels . The command is also deploying squads in hotspot areas and encouraging vigilance. Citizens should report suspicious actions immediately to 08063299264 or 08065154338 .
With heavy security presence and a clear legal framework, the state aims to facilitate a seamless election process. The all-day restriction underscores Lagos authorities’ resolve to prevent coercion, protect voters’ rights, and uphold the credibility of the electoral process.
Residents are advised to adjust travel plans, seek accredited means for urgent movement, and embrace their civic responsibilities within the safe perimeter set by the authorities. Women, youth, senior citizens, and people with disabilities are particularly encouraged to vote freely in the secured environment.
This bold security operation underscores Nigeria’s growing electoral agency maturity. Lagos joins a global trend where authorities prioritize order, transparency, and inclusion in democratic processes—by safeguarding mobility, information flow, and public safety during elections.
