Cephas Iorhemen 
The police yesterday deployed officers in the 23 local government areas of Benue State ahead of the October 5 council election.
The Commissioner of Police Steve Yabanet emphasized the need for the safety of life and property during the period. He ordered Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to ensure that their areas of responsibility are properly secured.
Yabanet said all officers posted to polling units, collation centres and all other points during the election have been warned to be professional and civil in carrying out their duties.
He said: “There shall be restriction of movement within the state from 12 am to 6 pm on October 5. “This is to enable a firm control of various routes and persons that could hinder a smooth running of the electoral process.
Only officials on essential/ emergency duties and duly identified shall be allowed access. “No form of violence, intimidation, vote buying or other electoral offences will be tolerated.”
