Police restrict movement ahead Kano by-elections, ban vigilante, others from polling units

The Kano State Police Command has announced movement restrictions in four Kano Local Government  Areas ahead of Saturday’s re-run and by-elections.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa on Thursday.

According to the statement, the commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori said the restrictions will apply in Ghari, Tsanyawa, Bagwai, and Shanono LGAs from midnight of Friday, August 15, to 6:00 p.m. of Saturday, August 16.

“This is to ensure a peaceful, free, fair, transparent, and successful election,” he said.

According to the police, movement of motor vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles is banned during the period, except for essential services such as ambulances, fire service trucks, and vehicles for electoral officers and accredited observers.

Bakori also warned that only eligible voters and agents officially recognised by INEC will be allowed at polling units.

“Weapons, political party-branded clothing or items, and loitering around polling stations are prohibited,” the statement added.

The police further said that state security outfits, including vigilante groups and KAROTA personnel, will not be allowed at polling units.

“Security agencies will remain apolitical, impartial, professional, neutral, and civil in the discharge of their duties,” the CP assured.

Residents were urged to cooperate with security agencies.

“For emergencies or to report suspicious activities, the members of the public are encouraged to contact the Command through the following phone numbers; 08032419754, 08123821575, 09029292926.”