**Vigilante Groups Take Charge of Security on Election Day in Kano State**
In Kano State, a unique scenario unfolded on election day, as local vigilante groups arm themselves with makeshift weapons and swords to provide security, filling the void left by the absence of police officers at polling stations. This unexpected shift was met with anxiety and a mix of fear and relief among residents as they prepared to cast their votes for the upcoming local government elections.
As the day unfolded, electoral officials began to arrive at polling units, and the air was filled with a sense of anticipation. The Kano State High Court’s recent ruling had ensured the legitimacy of the process, affirming the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission’s (KANSIEC) authority to conduct the elections despite attempts by political parties to halt the proceedings.
Judge Sanusi Ma’aji delivered a crucial verdict, stating that KANSIEC was constitutionally mandated to supervise and oversee the elections in the state’s 44 local government areas. The ruling came after KANSIEC took legal action against the All Progressives Congress (APC) and 13 other parties, who had challenged the commission’s authority.
As voting materials were distributed to polling units, Karota officials, along with vigilante groups, were taking charge of security arrangements. This development followed a statement from the Kano State Police Command, which confirmed compliance with a court order prohibiting their participation in the elections.
Superintendent of Police Abdullahi Haruna addressed the issue in a video message, emphasizing the police’s commitment to their constitutional duty to protect lives and property while adhering to the court’s restrictions. As a result, the stage was set for a unique, unconventional security arrangement, placing the responsibility on non-traditional actors, local vigilante groups, to ensure a peaceful and secure election day in Kano State.
