The independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Takai Local Government Area of Kano State has reportedly been engulfed in flames. The incident occurred around 9:30 am on Sunday when unidentified individuals began attacking people, prompting election observers, journalists, and INEC officials to flee for safety. Many sought refuge in the ceiling of the office, but the assailants proceeded to set the building on fire.
One of the victims, a local journalist named Sale Nasko, stated that the attackers were believed to be affiliated with a political party. Nasko, who is currently hospitalized with various injuries, identified three suspects—Garba Gambo, Shehu Na-marka, and Abdullahi Dan-jalingo—who have been arrested, while another suspect remains at large. This violent incident occurred as the collation officer for the local government awaited the arrival of the last two wards, Takai and Kachako, before announcing the official results of the recent Presidential and National Assembly elections. Nasko mentioned that they were rescued by military personnel and noted, “We have learned that the attack doesn’t affect the election results.”
When contacted for comment, the Police Public Relations Officer in Kano, SP Abdullahi Haruna, confirmed the incident. He explained that the fire originated from the generator house located behind the office building but was quickly extinguished. “It was from the generator house that they put out the fire. It was hurriedly brought under control, and security operatives have intensified their presence in the area,” he stated.
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