By-election: Police restrict movement in Kano LG

The Kano State Police Command has announced a restriction on movement in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area ahead of the upcoming State Assembly by-election scheduled for Saturday, September 19, 2026. This restriction will commence at midnight and conclude at 5:00 pm, as per a statement released by the command on Friday. The decision was made in coordination with the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) and in compliance with the Inspector-General of Police's directive, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

Commissioner of Police in Kano, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, clarified that only individuals with valid identification and essential duties would be permitted to move around the area during the restriction period. Exemptions include INEC officials, accredited election observers, medical workers, firefighters, and journalists. Security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs, political office holders, and government officials are also barred from entering polling units and collation centers.

Quasi-security outfits, vigilante groups, and voluntary organizations are prohibited from participating in the election security arrangement or congregating near polling stations. The Commissioner of Police emphasized that carrying arms or dangerous weapons within or around election venues is strictly prohibited. Political parties, candidates, and supporters are urged to adhere to the Electoral Act, 2022, as amended, and maintain law-abiding behavior throughout the election process.

The police have deployed sufficient personnel and equipment to polling units, Registration Area Centres, collation centers, and identified flashpoints in Dawakin Kudu. Joint patrol teams will enforce the restrictions and swiftly respond to any breaches of the peace. Those violating the movement restriction or other electoral guidelines will be arrested and prosecuted as per the law.

The Commissioner of Police appealed to parents and guardians to warn their children and wards against engaging in political violence before, during, or after the election. The public was urged to report emergencies or suspicious activities to the Kano Police Command via the provided contact numbers. The Kano State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring a secure environment for citizens to exercise their voting rights.