Breaking: Tension as Security Forces Arrest 100 Suspected Thugs as By-Election Begins
- INEC confirmed the arrest of over 100 suspected political thugs during the Bagwai by-election in Kano
- Security operatives swiftly restored calm after attempts to disrupt voting and minor logistical delays
- Police have taken custody of the suspects, with INEC confirming they will face prosecution
Bagwai, Kano state - The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed the arrest of about 100 suspected political thugs in Bagwai Local Government Area of Kano state during Saturday’s by-election.
INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Kano, Abdu Zango, disclosed this to journalists in Bagwai, saying security operatives acted swiftly to prevent disruption.
Source: Twitter
“All those (suspects) we have seen have been rounded up, and the process is going on peacefully. I am really impressed. Sensitive materials were deployed on time, and polling commenced at about 8:30 a.m. in most places,” Zango said.
Kano state by election: Security forces restore calm
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According to the REC, there were a few isolated incidents of delays caused by vehicle breakdowns and attempts by groups to obstruct movement.
However, security operatives such as the police responded promptly to restore calm.
“Although there were isolated cases of delay due to vehicle breakdowns and attempts by some groups to disrupt movement, security forces were on hand to ensure stability and restore order. The process is still ongoing,” Zango explained.
Kano suspected thugs to face prosecution, says INEC
Source: Twitter
While Zango noted that he could not identify most of those apprehended, he confirmed that the police had taken over the matter and would prosecute the suspects.
“The police confirmed that more than 100 suspects had been apprehended and would be prosecuted,” he added.
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Nigeria: Analyst condemns political thuggery during elections
Hamma Hayatu, a respected political analyst, described the arrests as a stark reminder of Nigeria’s enduring struggle with political thuggery.
Speaking with Legit.ng on Saturday, August 16, he said,
“It’s deeply troubling to witness voters being threatened and intimidated. Elections are meant to be a reflection of the people’s will, and no citizen should live in fear while exercising their democratic right.”
He further emphasised the importance of accountability, noting,
“These incidents highlight the urgent need for authorities to ensure that elections are conducted in a safe and transparent manner. Without security, our democracy cannot thrive.”
Hayatu also called on the federal government to take decisive action, stating,
“The authorities must act swiftly to apprehend those responsible and strengthen measures that protect voters. Ensuring the safety of citizens during elections is not optional, it is a fundamental responsibility of the state.”
Kaduna: PDP agent arrested with N25m cash
Previously, Legit.ng reported that the by-election holding in Kaduna on Saturday, August 16, has taken a different turn as the security operatives arrested a suspected vote-buyer with the cash sum of N25.9 million. It was alleged that the money was meant to compromise the electoral exercise in the state.
The suspect, who was identified as Shehu Aliyu Patangi, was reportedly arrested around 3:30am on the day of the election. Police and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) made the arrest at a popular hotel along the Turunku Road in Kaduna metropolis.
Source: Legit.ng
