Authorities in Nigeria’s Jigawa State have pledged to uphold transparency and security during Saturday’s parliamentary bye-election in the Babura/Garki Federal Constituency, amid heightened preparations by electoral and security officials. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and police leadership emphasized their commitment to a credible process during a coordination meeting in Dutse, the state capital, aimed at addressing logistical and safety concerns ahead of the vote.
Speaking at the Jigawa State Police Headquarters, INEC National Commissioner Prof. Abdullahi Abdu Zuru reiterated the commission’s readiness to conduct a free, fair, and orderly election. Zuru, who oversees electoral operations in Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states, described the meeting as part of broader consultations to ensure all stakeholders align ahead of the poll. He praised local law enforcement for their proactive measures to maintain peace and stressed the need for continued collaboration between security agencies, election officials, and community leaders. “Synergy is critical to protecting the integrity of the electoral process and the safety of voters,” he said.
Jigawa State Commissioner of Police Dahiru Muhammad echoed these assurances, vowing that security forces would deploy “robust operational strategies” to prevent disruptions. Muhammad confirmed that personnel would safeguard polling units, collation centers, and critical infrastructure throughout the election period. He urged political parties, candidates, and supporters to adhere to electoral laws, warning that violators attempting to incite violence would face “decisive action.” The police chief also called on voters in Babura and Garki districts to participate without fear, emphasizing that adequate measures were in place to protect citizens exercising their democratic rights.
The bye-election, triggered by a vacancy in the federal legislature, serves as a test of Nigeria’s electoral reforms amid lingering public scrutiny over past voting irregularities. While INEC has faced challenges in recent national polls, including logistical delays and allegations of voter suppression, officials have repeatedly vowed to improve transparency. The commission’s outreach to security forces underscores the persistent concerns about political violence in Nigeria, where clashes during elections have historically deterred voter turnout.
With less than 48 hours until polls open, authorities remain focused on balancing accessibility with strict security protocols. Local observers have emphasized the election’s significance for rebuilding public trust ahead of broader contests in 2027. As campaigns conclude, residents await tangible proof of the promised safeguards, hoping for a process that reflects their choices without intimidation or compromise.
