- Kaduna police warn against electoral violence during bye-elections.
- Intelligence indicates plots to disrupt the process by political actors and their supporters.
- Vote-buying, intimidation, and thuggery to be met with immediate arrest and prosecution.
The Kaduna State police command has issued a firm warning against any form of violence or electoral misconduct, promising swift action against offenders as residents head to the polls for the bye-elections.
In a released statement retrieved by Eko Hot Blog earlier before the commencement of voting, the police disclosed that credible intelligence pointed to plans by some political actors and their supporters to disrupt the exercise.
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The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, stated that any individual, regardless of social or political status, found engaging in activities such as vote-buying, thuggery, intimidation, or attempts to incite unrest, would be promptly arrested and prosecuted.
“Security operatives will not hesitate to take immediate action against anyone attempting to undermine the peace and integrity of the electoral process,” Hassan said.
He further revealed that the police, in conjunction with other security agencies, had put comprehensive arrangements in place to safeguard the process. Officers have been deployed to polling units, collation centres, identified flashpoints, and other strategic locations across the state.
Personnel on election duty have been instructed to maintain high standards of professionalism and enforce the law without fear or favour.
The Commissioner of Police, according to Hassan, also cautioned political leaders, party members, and supporters to refrain from inciting violence or creating tension during the exercise.
Hassan assured voters that security forces are fully prepared to ensure a safe and credible election environment.
“All eligible voters are encouraged to come out and vote peacefully. There is no need for fear or anxiety, as adequate security has been deployed to protect lives, property, and the integrity of the election,” he said.
