Ahead of the bye-election for the Ahoada East and Khana State House of Assembly constituencies in Rivers State, scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026, the state Police Command has ordered a restriction of movement within the two constituencies.
The restriction will take effect from 12:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs on Saturday.
During this period, there will be a massive deployment of security personnel across the two local government areas to forestall any breakdown of law and order and to ensure the protection of lives and property before, during, and after the election.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko.
According to the statement, security operatives will be stationed at strategic locations, polling units, and major roads to prevent violence, electoral malpractice, and other criminal activities capable of disrupting the electoral process.
The police advised members of the public to comply strictly with the movement restriction order, avoid loitering or gathering unnecessarily around polling units, and refrain from carrying weapons or any suspicious items.
The statement further urged residents to report any suspicious movements or activities that could undermine the electoral process and to conduct themselves peacefully in accordance with the Electoral Act.
Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, advised all political parties, candidates, and their supporters to shun violence and adhere strictly to the provisions of the Electoral Act and other relevant laws guiding the conduct of elections.
The Commissioner also warned that any individual or group found violating the restriction order or engaging in acts capable of disrupting the peace would be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.
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He called on parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against being used as instruments of political violence or disorder during the election.
According to the Commissioner, the cooperation of residents is essential to ensure a peaceful and successful bye-election in the affected constituencies.
He assured that the police and other security agencies remain committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all law-abiding citizens to exercise their civic rights without fear or intimidation.
