The Kano State Police Command has arrested 288 suspected political thugs during the ongoing by-election for the Bagwai/Shanono and Ghari/Tsanyawa state constituencies, which was marred by widespread violence and voter intimidation.
The election is being held to replace Halilu Kundila, a member of the Kano State House of Assembly who passed away after a brief illness.
Kano State Commissioner of Police Alhaji Ibrahim Bakori confirmed the arrests in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Saturday, revealing that hired thugs disrupted polling in several areas.
“The election was marred by violence, with thugs allegedly hired to disrupt proceedings,” Bakori stated. He explained that many eligible voters stayed away from polling units due to fear, as armed thugs openly intimidated residents.
“The thugs’ actions therefore made it difficult for many eligible voters to participate in the electoral process,” the police commissioner added. Despite the disruptions, security forces worked to restore order, with Bakori noting, “The police command, in collaboration with other security agencies, is working tirelessly to maintain law and order.”
Bakori provided details on the arrests, saying, “The police have apprehended 288 suspected thugs for disrupting the election process and have commenced intensive investigations.”
He further disclosed that authorities are working to uncover those responsible for orchestrating the violence, including possible links to candidates contesting in the election.
“The police command is working to identify those behind the thuggery, including possible candidates in the election,” he told NAN.
The commissioner assured residents of their safety and called for public cooperation with security agencies to ensure peaceful elections. The arrests come amid growing concerns over political violence in Kano State, with opposition parties previously calling for the cancellation of the polls due to security threats.