The Kano State Police Command has restricted movement in Kano Municipal and Ungogo Local Government Areas ahead of the State House of Assembly by-elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026.
The restriction was announced on Thursday after a security meeting held in Kano to prepare for the polls. The meeting was led by the Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission in the state, Zango Abdu, alongside security agencies.
The police said the decision was taken to maintain order and ensure a peaceful voting process. Movement of vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles will not be allowed from midnight until 6:00 p.m. on election day.
Only vehicles providing essential services such as ambulances, fire trucks, and those belonging to electoral officials and accredited observers will be permitted to move during this period.
The Commissioner of Police in Kano State, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, worked with other security agencies to put plans in place to secure the affected areas. The police command said it has made full arrangements to safeguard voters, electoral staff, and materials throughout the exercise.
According to the command, only registered voters will be allowed at polling units. Party agents must be properly identified and approved by the electoral body before they can operate at voting centres. Security officials also warned that weapons of any kind are banned during the election.
The police added that anyone wearing clothes or carrying items linked to political parties will not be allowed near polling units. People will not be permitted to gather or remain around voting centres without reason.
Local security groups such as vigilantes, neighbourhood watch members, Hisbah, and traffic agency personnel will not be stationed at polling units.
The command assured residents that security officers will remain neutral and professional while carrying out their duties. It called on residents and visitors in the two local government areas to cooperate with law enforcement agents to ensure a smooth process.
Members of the public were also encouraged to report any suspicious movement or emergency through the official police contact lines.
The police wished the people of Kano State a calm and orderly by-election as preparations continue for Saturday’s vote.