The Kano State Police Command has announced that it will respect a court order barring its involvement in the upcoming local government elections scheduled for Saturday, October 26, 2024.
This announcement was made in a video message from the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP. Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa. He confirmed that the police will step back from the election process in line with legal directives.
“The law is very clear. Section 4 of the Police Act 2020 as amended, provides the responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force, which is protection of lives and property.
“And of course, you’re very much aware of the court order received by the Police Command here in Kano. Item 9 of the order provided that Police should not participate in the coming local government election in the state. Police in Kano are not participating in the election,” he said.
The Police Spokesperson emphasised that while the police will not engage directly in the election process, they are fully prepared to prevent any disturbances and will respond promptly to any security threats.
“However, it is our responsibility to ensure no breakdown of law and order in the state and we are always alive to our responsibilities,” Kiyawa added.
Kiyawa confirmed that the State Commissioner of Police, CP Salman Dogo Garba, has instructed all operational commanders to prioritise public safety and ensure that lives and property are protected throughout the election period.
“The State Commissioner of Police CP Salman Dogo Garba has already directed all the commands operational commanders to ensure protection of lives and property in Kano State,” he said.
This decision follows legal challenges surrounding the election, with conflicting court rulings raising questions about the legitimacy of the electoral process.