The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested 50 individuals allegedly operating as members of a state-owned security outfit during Saturday’s by-elections in the Nigerian state. The suspects were apprehended inside polling stations while reportedly carrying weapons, including guns, cutlasses, and sticks, in a move described by authorities as a breach of electoral security protocols.
The arrests follow concerns raised by the state government regarding the detention of voters. Deputy Governor Mohammed Auwal Jatau expressed alarm while inspecting the conduct of the election at Fuchukuwa Polling Unit in Sakwa Ward of Zaki Local Government Area. Jatau stated that some voters were allegedly prevented from casting their ballots and appealed for the immediate release of those taken into custody, noting that some security personnel involved appeared unfamiliar with the state.
In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer Habib Nafiu explained that the presence of state-established security outfits, private security personnel, and local vigilante groups at polling units is contrary to the Electoral Act and existing security arrangements. The Command emphasized that election security is restricted to statutorily recognised agencies operating under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security.
Commissioner of Police Sani-Omolori Aliyu condemned the alleged breach and directed that the 50 suspects be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation. He warned that anyone found attempting to disrupt the electoral process or threaten public peace would face legal action, irrespective of their political or social status. The Police Command also appealed to residents to remain peaceful and report any suspicious activities through appropriate emergency channels.
Meanwhile, All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman Mohammed Hassan Tilde defended the conduct of his party’s supporters during the bye-election. Speaking at Sambuwal Primary School Polling Unit in Disina Ward of Shira Local Government Area, Tilde stated that no APC supporter was arrested, which he described as a testament to their good behaviour.
Tilde characterized the election as peaceful, free, and fair, expressing confidence that the APC candidate would secure the seat in the State Assembly. The by-elections took place across various local government areas in Bauchi State, with security forces maintaining a presence to ensure the integrity of the voting process.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
