AIG Godwin Eze has assumed charge of security for Saturday’s Anambra State bye-election.
Police announced movement restrictions and banned vigilante groups from participating in election duties.
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Godwin Eze has officially taken charge of security arrangements for the Anambra State bye-election scheduled for Saturday, 16 August 2025. His appointment as the Supervisory Officer follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police.
AIG Eze assumed duty on Friday, 15 August, and has begun overseeing the deployment of personnel for the exercise. Addressing officers ahead of the polls, he stressed that only accredited security operatives are permitted to participate in election duties. He made it clear that vigilante groups, hunters, and all other quasi-security outfits are barred from any involvement during the voting process.
As part of security measures, vehicular movement will be restricted between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. in the affected locations on election day. The restriction will cover Nnewi North and South, Orumba North and South, Ekwusigo, Aguata, and Ihiala Local Government Areas in the Anambra South Senatorial District, as well as Onitsha North Constituency 1 and Awka South Local Government Area, which hosts the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters.
According to the Police Command, this restriction aims to prevent criminal activities, minimise the risk of electoral violence, and ensure the safety of voters, election officials, and security personnel. The Command assured the public of its preparedness to protect the integrity of the electoral process and urged residents to cooperate with deployed officers and remain law-abiding.
For emergencies or complaints, residents can contact AIG Godwin Eze on 08023407772, the Command Control Room on 07039194332, or the Police Public Relations Officer on 08039334002.
