Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State, the police have tightened security around the Independent National Electoral Commission’s headquarters, located along the new Ado-Ekiti-Iyin Road.

A visit by our correspondent to the INEC office revealed a heavy security presence, with armed police officers strategically deployed within and around the commission’s premises.

The Police also mounted a roadblock directly in front of the INEC office, subjecting vehicles to thorough stop-and-search operations before allowing them to pass.

Motorists approaching the commission’s headquarters were required to slow down while security operatives inspected vehicles and questioned occupants as part of efforts to forestall any security breach ahead of the poll.

Several police patrol vehicles, personnel carriers and other security assets were stationed around the area, while officers maintained surveillance on adjoining roads leading to the commission’s office.

A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak, said the deployment was part of measures to safeguard election materials.

According to him, the stop-and-search operation was designed to prevent the movement of dangerous arms and other prohibited items that could threaten the peaceful conduct of the election.

The officer assured residents that the security measures were not intended to intimidate members of the public but to guarantee a safe environment for the conduct of the governorship poll.

Meanwhile, INEC officials were seen making last-minute arrangements as the commission intensified preparations for the poll. (The Nation)