Rivers State Police Restrict Movement Ahead of Local Government Elections

As the people of Rivers State prepare for the upcoming Local Government Elections scheduled for August 30, 2025, the Rivers State Police Command has issued a directive on temporary movement restrictions across the state.

The restriction, which applies to both human and vehicular movement, will be in effect from 12:00am to 6:00pm on Election Day. The only exemptions will be granted to individuals on essential duties.

Why the Restriction?

According to the Police Command, this measure is designed to:

• Ensure a peaceful, free, and fair electoral process
• Prevent the movement of criminal elements that could disrupt voting
• Enable security agencies to effectively monitor and protect polling areas

Comprehensive security measures have been rolled out, including the deployment of security operatives to both land routes and waterways, to guarantee safety and order during the elections.

Debunking False Reports

The Command also took the opportunity to debunk misleading press reports circulating on social media regarding election restrictions. Authorities clarified that any information not released directly by the Police Command should be disregarded as false and misleading.

Call for Public Cooperation

In her statement, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, ANIPR, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Rivers State Command, urged residents to cooperate fully with law enforcement officers.

She stressed the importance of:

• Complying with the restriction order
• Avoiding unnecessary movement
• Reporting all suspicious activities to security agencies immediately

The Rivers State Police Command reassures citizens of its commitment to ensuring a secure, transparent, and violence-free election. The safety of voters remains the top priority, and with public cooperation, the election process will proceed smoothly.

read the official press statement below:

RIVERS STATE POLICE COMMAND PRESS STATEMENT.

Temporary Movement Restrictions for Local Government Elections:

In preparation for the forthcoming Local Government Elections in the State, the Rivers State Police Command wishes to inform the public that, there will be temporary restrictions on human and vehicular movement across the state, except those on essential duties. This restriction will be from 12:00am to 6:00pm on August 30, 2025.

The Police Command urges citizens to cooperate fully with security agencies to ensure a smooth, peaceful, and hitch-free electoral process, as the Police are committed to maintaining law and order before, during, and after the elections. Comprehensive security measures have been put in place, including the adequate deployment of Security Operatives to all the land and waterways to guarantee a secure environment for voters.

The command also wishes to debunk false press reports circulating on social media, clarifying that such reports do not emanate from the Police Command.

We urge residents to comply with the restriction order, and report all suspicious activities to security agencies.

SP GRACE IRINGE-KOKO, ANIPR,

Police Public Relations Officer, Rivers State Police Command.