Police Parades Electoral Offenders In Kano State
By Ene Okwanihe, Jack Acheme, Rafat Salami, Omadefu Obande, Bala Yusuf & Sunday Zallahi, Kano
About 100 political thugs and electoral offenders have been arrested in Kano state North-west Nigeria.
Their offences ranges from vote buying, destruction of election materials, attempting to burn down INEC office, being in possession of offensive weapons and illicit drugs amongst others.
The State Commissioner of Police, Useini Gumel made this known at a media briefing, aimed at updating the people on the security situation in the state in the ongoing electoral process.
He said “the suspects includes Ishiaku Ali Danja, a member of the State House of Assembly representing Gezawa constituency and candidate vying for a return ticket for attempting to burn down the Gezawa Local Government INEC collation centre amongst others.”
According to the Commissioner, the police legal team has been directed to speed up the prosecution without delay.
He explained that the Police are alert and ready to ensure that the process ends peacefully while calling on the people of Kano to remain calm and stop the spread of Fake news.
Gumel noted that the Police have embarked on a confidence-building patrol and show of force to tackle any form of perceived threat.
He said; “The command in conjunction with other relevant security agencies in the state have embarked on serious confidence building patrol and show of force to surmount any likely emerging threats.
“We assure the good people of this state of their security and safety and we call on the peace-loving Kano state residence to continue to give maximum support and cooperation avoid spreading fake news and hate speeches capable of distracting the peace in the state.”
Gumel urged the people to maintain decorum while celebrating when the election results are announced to prevent loss of lives and properties.
Mercy Chukwudiebere