Police Enforce Strict Movement Restrictions in Kano Ahead of By-Elections
The Kano State Police Command has announced an extensive 18-hour restriction on all vehicular movement across Kano Municipal and Ungogo Local Government Areas. This decisive security measure is being implemented to guarantee a peaceful and credible electoral process during the upcoming State Assembly by-elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026.
Comprehensive Security Protocols for Electoral Integrity
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the movement ban will be strictly enforced from 12:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. on election day. This directive emerged from a thorough security review meeting conducted by the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), highlighting the coordinated approach among security agencies.
The restriction applies comprehensively to all forms of transportation, including motor vehicles, tricycles popularly known as Keke NAPEP, and motorcycles. Only specific essential vehicles will be permitted to operate during this critical period. These exceptions include ambulances for medical emergencies, fire service trucks, and vehicles belonging to electoral officials and duly accredited election observers.
Stringent Regulations at Polling Units
CSP Kiyawa emphasized that security personnel have been directed to enforce electoral guidelines with both strictness and professionalism. "The Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, has implemented all necessary measures to ensure peaceful, free, fair, credible, transparent, and successful by-elections," he stated confidently.
Access to polling units will be rigorously controlled, with only eligible voters and officially accredited party agents identified by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) permitted within designated voting areas. The police spokesperson explicitly prohibited loitering in or around polling units, warning that such behavior "will not be tolerated" under any circumstances.
Prohibition of Political Symbols and Weapons
In a significant move to maintain neutrality and prevent voter intimidation, the police have banned the display of political party insignia at all polling centers. "Individuals wearing clothing or carrying items with political party logos or identities will not be allowed at polling units," Kiyawa declared firmly.
The prohibition extends to the carrying of weapons of any kind near voting locations. These measures are designed to create a secure environment where citizens can exercise their democratic rights without fear or coercion, ensuring the electoral process remains untainted by partisan influence or security threats.
Broader Context of Kano's Political Landscape
This security preparation occurs against the backdrop of significant political developments in Kano State. Governor Abba Yusuf recently explained his strategic decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the necessity of aligning with the federal government for the state's progress and development. The governor emphasized Kano's substantial size and national importance during a grand rally where he appreciated key APC leaders and reassured supporters about maintaining unity and stability.
Concurrently, Kano State has implemented other restrictions unrelated to the elections, including the suspension of activities at event centers and entertainment venues to facilitate religious observance during the Ramadan fasting period. The Kano State Censorship Board announced this directive on February 17, 2026, to allow residents to focus on their spiritual activities without distraction.
The police movement restriction represents a comprehensive security strategy to safeguard the democratic process in one of Nigeria's most politically significant states, demonstrating the authorities' commitment to electoral integrity through proactive measures and inter-agency cooperation.
