By John Umeh
In preparation for the highly anticipated Local Government (LG) elections in Lagos State scheduled for Saturday, July 13, 2025, the Lagos State Police Command has announced a 12-hour restriction on vehicular movement across the state. This restriction will be in effect from 3:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on election day and is aimed at ensuring a peaceful, secure, and orderly electoral process.
The announcement was made by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police through the command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, who emphasized that the movement restriction is a proactive security measure designed to minimize disruptions, prevent violence, and allow voters to participate freely in the local council polls without interference.
A Statewide Lockdown to Ensure Safety
The Lagos State Police explained that the 12-hour lockdown applies to all forms of vehicular movement, including private cars, commercial buses, motorcycles, and tricycles. This restriction covers all local government areas (LGAs) and local council development areas (LCDAs) where voting is scheduled to take place.
Security agencies will be deployed in large numbers across the state to enforce the order. According to the police, the restriction is necessary to reduce traffic around polling units, deter political thugs from causing disruptions, and allow for quick and safe response by law enforcement officers if any incident arises.
The police also warned against any attempts by individuals or groups to disobey the order, stating that violators would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Who Is Exempted?
While the restriction is strict, certain categories of individuals and services are exempt. These include:
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Electoral officials working with the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC)
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Accredited election observers
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Medical emergency services (e.g., ambulances and healthcare workers)
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Firefighters
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Essential security personnel on election duty
All exempt individuals must carry valid identification or accreditation tags to avoid being stopped at security checkpoints.
The police further clarified that no individual, no matter how highly placed, would be allowed to move around with security escorts, sirens, or covered number plates on election day. This rule, they said, is in line with efforts to prevent the use of intimidation tactics or undue influence during the voting process.
Police Call for Public Cooperation
The Lagos State Police Command has urged all residents to cooperate fully with law enforcement officers, avoid any unnecessary movement during the restriction period, and report suspicious activities promptly. Citizens can contact the police emergency hotlines if they witness any form of violence, electoral malpractice, or threats to public safety.
Commissioner of Police, through the spokesperson, reiterated that the intention of the restriction is not to inconvenience residents, but to protect lives, maintain public order, and ensure that the LG elections are free, fair, and credible.
“We are fully committed to maintaining peace and order throughout the election period,” the statement read. “Residents are advised to stay calm, obey the law, and go out to vote peacefully.”
The Importance of the LG Elections
Local Government elections in Lagos are important because they determine leadership at the grassroots level. Chairmen and councilors elected during this poll will be responsible for managing public services and development projects in local communities.
Given the significance of this democratic process, the police, electoral body, and civil society organizations have stressed the need for public participation and non-violence. Voter turnout in previous local polls has been low due to apathy, fear of violence, and distrust in the process—factors the authorities hope to combat through tight security and proper coordination.
As Lagos prepares to elect its local government officials, the 12-hour movement restriction is a major step towards ensuring a smooth and credible exercise. The Lagos State Police are calling on residents to plan ahead, respect the rules, and contribute to the peace and stability of the electoral process. With strong cooperation between the public and law enforcement, Lagosians can look forward to a safe and successful election day.
