The Kano State Command of the Nigerian Police says it has arrested eighty-five (85) suspected thugs in connection with political clashes in the north-western ancient city.
A statement by the Kano Police Command spokesman, Superintendent of Police Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police in-charge of the 2023 general elections, Mr. Muhammad Yakubu, recalled that:
“On 22/02/2023 reports were received that three (3) political parties, namely the All Progressives Congress (APC), the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) planned to hold political rallies/processions on Thursday, 23/02/2023 within Kano metropolis.
“On receipt of the reports and the likelihood of clashes and attacks on innocent citizens, the Commissioner of Police for the 2023 General Election, Kano State Command, CP Muhammad Yakubu, immediately summoned the representatives of the three political parties to an emergency meeting to find a solution to the impasse.
“Unfortunately, there was no headway with their planned rallies/processions.
“The Commissioner of Police passionately appealed to the consciousness of the representatives that this is not in the best interest of the fragile security of the state.
“In view of this, the three political parties were advised to postpone the planned rallies/procession.
“Today, 23/02/2023, clearance operations conducted by Joint Teams of security agencies after reported clashes led to the arrest of eighty-five (85) suspects that claimed to be of different political parties and the recovery of dangerous weapons. An investigation is in progress.
“The Commissioner of Police appreciates the good people of the state for their understanding, encouragement and support.
“We seek your continuous cooperation to ensure a peaceful 2023 General Election.
“Thank you and God bless.”
