On Saturday, a significant traffic gridlock occurred around Karu Bridge in Abuja as military personnel enforced vehicle movement restrictions tied to security measures for the elections. The restrictions greatly impacted commuters traveling between Karu and the Abuja city center, causing a standstill around midday. Observations from a PUNCH correspondent on election duty highlighted that soldiers had blocked the road, contributing to the growing congestion.

The disruption affected not only regular commuters but also accredited election officials who required access to various polling stations. The PUNCH correspondent, while attempting to navigate through the checkpoint, was unsuccessful due to the soldiers’ refusal to allow passage despite requests. The scene was heavily fortified with several military vehicles and armed personnel, indicating the seriousness with which the military approached the restriction of movement during this sensitive time.

This situation underscores the tension often surrounding election periods in Nigeria, where security concerns lead to strict measures that can inadvertently affect citizen mobility and participation in the democratic process. Such enforcement actions highlight the balances between maintaining order and ensuring public access during critical electoral events. The implications of these restrictions could be significant, influencing voter turnout and access to election-related activities across the region.