Ahead of the forthcoming general elections, various security measures have been put in place by Nigerian security agencies across the country to ensure adequate protection and promote peace before, during and after the elections.
As scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on March 28, 2015, while the governorship and State House of Assembly elections are scheduled for April 11, 2015.
However, below are some security tips you should know and observe to avoid becoming a victim of unforeseen incidents before, during and after the elections:
1. Cooperate with security agencies
The Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies have been placed on high alert and are expected to conduct periodic and random searches of people, vehicles and various hotspots.
Citizens are therefore advised to cooperate with security personnel during this period. Do not abuse security agents, obstruct them in the discharge of their duties or unnecessarily resist them in order to avoid unfortunate repercussions.
The public has also been advised to exercise caution in view of the security measures that may be deployed during the election period.
2. Observe movement restrictions
There may be restrictions on the movement of people in the hours leading up to and during the March 28 presidential and National Assembly elections and the April 11 governorship and State House of Assembly elections.
Citizens are advised to observe and comply with all official directives for their personal safety.
3. Stock up your homes
Residents are advised to adequately stock their homes with essential food items and other necessities during the election period in case of emergencies, curfews or other unforeseen situations that may arise before or after the elections.
4. Vote early and leave the polling centre
If you are registered to vote and have your Permanent Voter Card (PVC), endeavour to get to your polling centre early, complete the accreditation process, cast your vote and leave the vicinity immediately.
After voting, return home and await the announcement of the results.
5. Avoid unnecessary gatherings
Do not cluster around polling centres. Stay away from groups or gatherings of people, regardless of the discussion or incident that may have attracted them.
6. Know your environment
Begin now to gather information about your immediate environment and get a sense of the situation around your intended polling centre.
Study your polling unit carefully. If you observe the presence of suspected miscreants, thugs or unknown persons creating tension, exercise caution and, where necessary, stay away.
Remember, your life is more important than your vote.
7. Dress responsibly
Avoid wearing political attire, party logos or other materials that could identify you with a particular political party or candidate.
Remember that campaigning is not permitted during voting. Avoid politically branded T-shirts, caps and other campaign materials, including handbills, posters, pamphlets and banners, as these could expose you to unnecessary risks or victimisation.
8. Avoid provocative discussions
Do not engage in inciting or provocative discussions at polling centres, particularly those capable of heightening political tension or causing disagreement among supporters of different political parties and their agents.
9. Stay away from suspicious objects
Stay away from parked vehicles, abandoned packages, luggage and other suspicious objects. Report anything unusual to the appropriate security authorities.
10. Be careful with food and drinks
Do not buy drinks, snacks or other consumables around polling centres. Similarly, do not accept food, drinks, gifts or other items from strangers at polling centres.
If you sense danger or suspect any foul play, immediately report the matter to the appropriate security personnel. Do not take the law into your own hands.
11. Avoid unnecessary valuables
Avoid taking your vehicle, children, expensive jewellery and other valuable personal belongings to polling centres unless absolutely necessary.
12. Security around churches
As part of security arrangements, church halls should be vacated within one hour after every church service.
Worshippers should avoid hanging around or clustering around church halls, entrances or surrounding areas after services or programmes.
13. Keep church entrances clear
Vehicles should not be allowed to park close to the entrances of church facilities for pick-up or drop-off during this period.
Above all, citizens are encouraged to remain extra-vigilant, calm and law-abiding before, during and after the elections.
Your safety should remain a priority. Exercise caution, avoid unnecessary confrontations and report suspicious activities to the appropriate security authorities.
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