The Kaduna State Police Command has cautioned politicians and their supporters against disrupting the bye-elections in the state.
The command said anyone found causing unrest during the polls would be arrested and prosecuted, irrespective of social or political standing.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Kaduna, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, revealed that security operatives had received “credible intelligence” about plans by some political actors and their supporters to foment trouble during the elections.
According to him, the command would not hesitate to deal decisively with troublemakers.
“Let it be made abundantly clear that such actions will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
“Anyone, no matter how highly placed, who engages in violence, intimidation, vote-buying, thuggery, or any form of disruption will be arrested immediately and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” the statement read in part.
The police disclosed that “robust security arrangements” had been put in place in collaboration with other security agencies, with deployments to polling units, collation centres, flashpoints, and other sensitive areas.
The statement added, “Security operatives have been directed to be firm, professional and uncompromising in dealing with individuals or groups who attempt to undermine the peace and orderliness of the elections.
“The Commissioner of Police, therefore, warns all political actors, party loyalists, and their supporters to conduct themselves responsibly and to desist from acts capable of causing unrest.”
Hassan assured residents of adequate protection, urging eligible voters in the affected areas to turn out in confidence and freely exercise their civic rights.