Jigawa electoral violence warning issued as police caution against ballot snatching, vote-buying, and political violence ahead of elections

The Nigeria Police Force in Jigawa State has issued a stern warning to politicians and youths against engaging in election-related offences that could undermine democratic processes across the state during upcoming political activities.

Also read: Tinubu blasts opposition over electoral act misrepresentation at APC convention

Jigawa electoral violence warning was delivered by the Commissioner of Police, Haruna Alaba Yahaya, during a familiarisation tour and stakeholder engagement across the Hadejia Emirate over the weekend, according to a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Lawan Shiisu Adam.

Commissioner Yahaya cautioned against political violence, ballot snatching, vote-buying, hate speech, unlawful campaigns, and destruction of campaign materials, describing such acts as serious threats to peace and stability.

He noted that the visit was carried out in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police aimed at strengthening community policing and improving collaboration between security agencies and local communities.

As part of the engagement, the police commissioner met with the Chairman of the Council of Chiefs and Emir of Hadejia, Abubakar Adamu Maje, where he highlighted prevailing security concerns and called for stronger cooperation between traditional rulers and security forces.

Jigawa electoral violence warning was further reinforced during meetings with local government chairmen in Hadejia and Kafin Hausa, where security challenges and preventive strategies were extensively discussed.

Commissioner Yahaya also engaged community leaders, youth groups, religious figures, vigilante operatives, and other stakeholders, urging them to support security agencies through timely intelligence sharing and active participation in community policing.

During a visit to Galauceme Village in Miga Local Government Area following a recent breach of peace, he appealed to residents to embrace peaceful coexistence and resolve disputes through lawful means.

The police also raised concerns over other security issues including homicide, mob action, rape, drug abuse, farmer-herder conflicts, traffic offences, illegal deforestation, and youth violence.

Also read: 2027: Group raises alarm over electoral malpractice in South-East

The command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Jigawa State, assuring residents of intensified efforts to curb all forms of criminal activity.