Olusegun Adeyemo
The Lagos State Police Command has announced a total restriction of vehicular movement across the state on Saturday, July 12, 2025, as part of security arrangements for the upcoming local government elections.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the command confirmed that the restriction will be in force from 3:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the day of the elections. The directive will apply to all roads and waterways within the state’s jurisdiction.
“This restriction will be strictly enforced across the entirety of Lagos State,” the police emphasized, noting that the decision was taken in collaboration with other security agencies under the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process in all 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
The police, however, listed specific exemptions from the restriction, including emergency medical services and other essential responders, accredited officials of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), and accredited media personnel and election observers officially cleared by LASIEC. “All security personnel and stakeholders involved in the election must wear their LASIEC-issued identification tags throughout the process,” the statement added.
Reassuring residents of adequate security coverage, the police announced a massive deployment of personnel to polling units and collation centres. Officers from other safety agencies will also be on ground to complement the efforts of the police. “To ensure security and safety before, during, and after the election, comprehensive security measures have been put in place to protect voters, electoral officers, and the integrity of the process,” the statement read.
In addition to the restriction, the command rolled out strict conduct regulations aimed at curbing election-related misconduct. Armed escorts and security aides are prohibited from accompanying political office holders or candidates to polling units or collation centres. The use of sirens and vehicles with covered number plates near polling areas is banned. “These measures are to prevent undue influence, voter intimidation, and ensure the neutrality of security operatives throughout the election,” the police explained.
The Lagos State Police Command called on residents to comply with the restriction and cooperate fully with law enforcement agents to maintain peace and order. They also urged Lagosians to report any suspicious activities that could compromise the credibility of the elections.
The July 12 local government election is seen as a critical opportunity for grassroots democratic participation, with all political parties expected to contest for chairmanship and councillorship positions across the state.