Khadijah Shehu Abdulkareem
The Kano State Police Command has barred state-owned security outfits from participating in Saturday’s by-elections across three local government areas, warning that only eligible voters, accredited agents, and officials will be granted access to polling units. The elections will take place in Ghari/Tsanyawa State Constituency to replace a late NNPP legislator, while a supplementary poll will be conducted in 10 polling units in Bagwai/Shanono State Constituency to conclude earlier results.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Police Public Relations Officer SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa announced a restriction of movement in the affected areas from midnight on Friday, August 15, to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025. He said exemptions will apply to ambulances, fire service trucks, and vehicles belonging to electoral officials and accredited observers. The move, according to Kiyawa, is part of comprehensive security measures to ensure a peaceful, free, fair, and transparent exercise.
The command warned that carrying weapons, loitering around polling units, and wearing or displaying political party symbols will not be tolerated. “Only agents officially identified by INEC will be permitted at polling units. State security outfits such as vigilante groups and KAROTA personnel will not be allowed at polling units,” the statement read.
Kiyawa assured that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, will remain apolitical, impartial, professional, and civil in carrying out their duties. He urged residents and visitors in the affected LGAs to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies to ensure a smooth and hitch-free electoral process.