Sokoto Police bans participation of State, Private security during election

Police Authority in Sokoto State North West Nigeria, has banned the State established and private security outfits from participating in election security management in the Saturday’s 18th Gubernatorial and State Houses of Assembly elections in the State.

The newly posted Commissioner of Police incharge of the elections in Sokoto State, CP Shettima Zanna issued the order in a press statement by the Police Public Relations officer, DSP Sanusi Abubakar on Friday.

The Police has also ordered the restriction of all vehicular movements on roads from 12 midnight on Friday to 6pm Saturday in the state.

The Police spokesperson noted that officials on essential services such as Electoral Observers, accredited media, ambulances, fire fighters among others are exempted from the order.

DSP Abubakar also said that all security aides to attached VIPs and escort are banned from accompanying their principals and politicians to polling units and collation centres during the Elections in the state.

The Police urged Sokoto state residents to adhere strictly with the restriction order adding that, “any person or group of persons that attempt to test our will by engaging in political violence or violating this order will be dealt with decisively.”

The Sokoto Police spokesperson advised parents to discourage their children and wards from election violence assuring the residents of Sokoto State that the Nigeria Police Force will coordinate effectively with other security agencies in the State and Collaborate with the leadership of INEC in guaranteeing a safe and secure space for the citizens to freely exercise their electoral franchise.

He said, “the public can contact the Command control room number via 07068848035 for any emergency or distress.”