Movement Restricted as ICCES Finalises Security Plans for Kano Assembly By-Elections
The Kano State Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) has concluded comprehensive security arrangements ahead of the February 21, 2026 by-elections into the Kano State House of Assembly seats for Kano Municipal and Ungogo Local Government Areas.
The meeting, held on February 19, 2026, was chaired by the Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kano State, Amb. Zango Abdu, mni. The Co-Chair, Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, PhD, announced that security agencies have activated coordinated measures to guarantee a peaceful, credible, free and fair electoral process.
In a press statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer on behalf of the Kano State Police Command, the Command assured residents that it is working in synergy with other security agencies to maintain law and order throughout the exercise.
Movement Restrictions Announced
As part of efforts to prevent security breaches, the Command imposed a total restriction on vehicular movement across Kano Municipal and Ungogo LGAs from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
The restriction affects cars, tricycles and motorcycles. However, exceptions will be made for vehicles providing essential services, including ambulances, fire service trucks, electoral officers, and accredited election observers.
Access Limited to Eligible Persons
Security authorities clarified that only eligible voters will be permitted at polling units, while only party agents duly accredited by INEC will be allowed to operate at the voting centres.
The Command also prohibited the carrying of weapons of any kind and warned that individuals wearing clothing or carrying materials bearing political party insignia will be barred from polling locations. Loitering within or around polling units will not be tolerated.
Additionally, state-based security outfits such as vigilante groups, neighbourhood watch operatives, Hisbah personnel and KAROTA officials have been barred from deployment at polling units during the election.
Commitment to Neutrality and Professionalism
The Police Command reiterated that security agencies will remain apolitical, impartial and professional in the discharge of their duties. Residents and visitors in the affected LGAs were urged to cooperate with law enforcement officials to ensure a smooth and hitch-free exercise.
Members of the public were encouraged to report suspicious movements or emergencies through the Command’s designated phone lines: 08032419754, 08123821575 and 09029292926.
The Command expressed optimism that the by-elections would be conducted peacefully and called on citizens to participate responsibly in the democratic process.