KANO, Nigeria — Electoral officials have begun arriving at polling units across Kano State for local government elections, following a last-minute ruling by the Kano State High Court granting the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) the authority to proceed with the exercise.
The court ruling nullified attempts by opposition parties to halt the election process, allowing KANSIEC to organise voting across the state’s 44 local government areas (LGAs).
Justice Sanusi Ma’aji of the Kano State High Court presided over the case, affirming that KANSIEC holds constitutional authority to conduct, supervise, and oversee local elections.
The ruling was in response to a case brought by KANSIEC against the All Progressives Congress (APC) and 13 other political parties seeking to stop the elections.
With the ruling, electoral activities commenced on schedule early today, with officials distributing voting materials to various polling centres.
Security Adaptations as Police Comply with Court Order
In a notable development, the Kano State Police Command has abstained from participating in election activities following a court order.
Kano Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna, explained that the command received the order on Friday, October 25, 2024, which specifically barred the police from involvement in the election.
Haruna assured that the command would comply, while emphasizing the police’s commitment to maintaining public safety and preventing disorder throughout the electoral process.
“We will comply with the court order restricting us from participation in the Kano State Local Government Election. However, we will remain steadfast in fulfilling our constitutional mandate of protection of lives and properties,” Haruna stated in a video message released to Channels Television.
Despite police absence at the polling units, local security groups, including vigilantes and members of the Kano Road Transport Agency (Karota), have been stationed to ensure order.
Some of these local security personnel were seen armed with sticks and locally-forged swords, standing near residents preparing to vote.
Election Observations and Progress
Reporters on the ground observed that voting materials had arrived at numerous polling units, with voters gradually gathering to cast their ballots.
The process has so far been peaceful, and local security teams remain on alert to prevent any disturbances.
Residents expressed mixed reactions to the absence of formal police officers, but many appreciated the presence of vigilante groups for added safety.
The elections are expected to continue throughout the day, marking a significant local government event in Kano as residents decide their leadership at the grassroots level.
