Police restrict vehicular movement, commercial activities ahead of Bauchi bye-elections

Bauchi State Police Command has imposed limitations on vehicle movement and commercial activities in two constituencies as the by-elections approach on September 19, 2026, according to a statement released by the command's spokesman, SP Nafiu Habib. The ban will take effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on election day, with exceptions for emergency responders, INEC officials, and accredited election observers.

Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, directed the deployment of personnel and resources to the two constituencies, Shira Local Government Area's Disina State Constituency and Zaki LGA's Sakwa State Constituency, in an effort to ensure a peaceful and fair election. This deployment is in coordination with other security agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES).

The police emphasized that VIP security aides, political office holders, and public officials should not accompany their principals to polling stations or collation centers. Additionally, the use of sirens and concealed number plates is prohibited throughout the election period. The police cautioned that state security groups, private security firms, and vigilante organizations are not permitted to participate in election security operations; only authorized agencies under ICCES will be permitted.

The command also urged political figures and residents to refrain from vote-buying, vote-selling, hate speech, fake news, thuggery, cyberbullying, and other behaviors that could disrupt the election. Anyone caught carrying weapons or other incriminating items at polling stations will face arrest and prosecution. The Commissioner of Police assured residents of Disina and Sakwa constituencies that the police would safeguard lives and property while ensuring a level playing field for all political parties and candidates.