The Lagos State Police Command has unveiled detailed security plans ahead of the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, July 12, 2025, promising a safe and peaceful exercise across the 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Command confirmed that security operatives, in collaboration with other agencies under the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), will be fully deployed across polling units and collation centres to ensure order, protect voters, and safeguard electoral officials and materials.
As part of the measures, a total restriction of vehicular movement has been announced from 3:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on election day. This restriction applies to all roads and waterways in Lagos State and is aimed at preventing any form of disruption to the voting process.
The Command stressed that only essential services will be exempted from the restriction, including ambulances, fire service vehicles, and patrol units involved in official election duties. Media professionals, election observers and LASIEC officials accredited by the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission will also be allowed to move within the state, provided they carry visible identification.
According to the statement, the use of sirens, covered number plates, and the presence of armed security aides at polling centres are strictly prohibited. Political officeholders and other VIPs are warned not to appear at polling units with escorts or bodyguards, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act.
Security personnel deployed for the elections are mandated to carry out their duties professionally and with respect for the rights and dignity of citizens. Any breach of the vehicular restriction or other election guidelines will attract immediate arrest and prosecution.
The Command has also directed all personnel, observers, journalists, and LASIEC staff involved in the electoral process to wear identification tags throughout the duration of the exercise. Anyone found around election venues without proper accreditation will be investigated and could face legal action.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, appealed to residents to comply with the guidelines and to assist security agencies by remaining law-abiding. He called on political parties to caution their members against any acts capable of disrupting the peace.
He warned criminal elements, including political thugs and mischief makers, to steer clear of polling and collation centres, adding that any attempt to disrupt the process will be met with the full weight of the law.
The police further advised parents to restrain their children and wards from engaging in violence or any unlawful conduct during the election. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities to the police via emergency lines: 08063299264 or 08065154338.
The Lagos Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a secure and credible electoral process and thanked residents in advance for their cooperation and support.