Nigeria has temporarily shut its border with Niger Republic ahead of the Saturday by-election in Jigawa State. The move, aimed at bolstering security, is designed to prevent cross-border crimes and maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
This announcement followed a crucial meeting between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and heads of security agencies in Dutse, Jigawa’s capital. The by-election, which will take place in the Garki/Babura Federal Constituency, requires a coordinated effort to ensure peace and order.
Jigawa shares its border with Niger through local government areas such as Babura, the constituency headquarters. The decision to close the border was confirmed by the state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Dahiru Muhammad, who shared details of the security plans.
“The border will be closed from 12 a.m. on Friday to 6 p.m. on election day, Saturday,” CP Muhammad told PUNCH. “This is to avoid any potential external interference.”
As part of the security strategy, a two-day “show of force” will be carried out, beginning Thursday and lasting until Friday. Security agencies are also preparing a three-layered security cover for polling units, focusing on outer, middle, and inner perimeters to protect voters, election officials, and stakeholders.
Furthermore, a main security operations room will be set up in Babura town, where an emergency contact number will be available for reporting incidents. The police commissioner assured that all necessary precautions have been put in place, urging voters to participate in the election and ensuring a smooth electoral process.
“We have everything covered to ensure a safe and successful election,” Muhammad stated, highlighting the crucial role of security forces in maintaining order during the election period.
