Kano Gears Up for August 16 Bye-Elections: INEC and Security Agencies Say 'No Room for Troublemakers'

With bye-elections around the corner in Kano State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has joined hands with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and credible voting process. The elections, set to take place on August 16, 2025, will be held in Ghari/Tsanyawa and Bagwai/Shanono State Constituencies.

At a security stakeholders’ meeting held at the INEC headquarters in Kano, representatives from key security outfits — including the Police, Army, DSS, Civil Defence, Customs, Immigration, and the Federal Road Safety Corps — came together to strategize on maintaining law and order during the elections.

INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner in Kano, Ambassador Zango Abdul, emphasized that all preparations have been completed. These include the reconfiguration of the BVAS (Bimodal Voter Accreditation System) devices and the training of election officials.

He sent a clear warning to anyone planning to cause chaos: “Think again.” He reminded the public of a previously failed attempt to conduct the Ghari/Tsanyawa poll, which was disrupted by thugs, leading to its cancellation. This time, he said, the commission and security forces are fully ready.

Representing the Kano State Commissioner of Police, CSP Abubakar Hamma reinforced that the police have learned from past challenges and are committed to preventing any repeat of violence.

“Any politician or group that tries to stir trouble because of fear of losing should be ready to face the law,” he warned.

INEC also announced a follow-up stakeholders' meeting with political parties, scheduled for Wednesday. The aim is to secure their cooperation and ensure peaceful participation in the polls.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the elections:

Ghari/Tsanyawa: Voting will be held in 10 polling units, as ordered by the court after the earlier attempt was marred by violence.

Bagwai/Shanono: This bye-election is taking place due to the death of the former lawmaker representing the area in April 2024.

As August 16 approaches, INEC and security agencies are urging citizens to come out, cast their votes peacefully, and reject violence in the democratic process.

Your vote is your voice — don’t let fear silence it.