The Nigerian Police has embarked on a swift U-turn. On Thursday, the Inspector-General of Police, Suleiman Abba had said citizens should head home after casting their ballot to avoid falling foul of the law.
“Cast your votes and go and cool down. If you remain there, there is a likelihood that you will commit an offence,’’ he had said.
Moments after his riot act, the two major political parties and the electoral umpire led by Professor Jega said there was no law stopping anyone from hanging around the polling area when votes have been cast.
“As many of the voters may wish to remain to see the actual counting of the votes after voting has ended,” Jega had stated.
In a telephone conversation with the Punch Force Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Ojukwu, has however said citizens can stay within meters of the ballot box after casting their votes as long as they remain civil and non-violent.
“Anybody who commits any offence against the Electoral Act would be dealt with in line with the law. Voters are free to stay behind if they chose to,” Ojukwu stated.
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