Security agencies have launched a sweeping crackdown on electoral violence during recent by-elections in Kano and Ogun states.

In Kano, the State Police Command has arranged 333 alleged political thugs—some reportedly linked to government officials—for orchestrating disturbances during the Ghari, Bagwai, and Shanono by-elections. 

Commissioner Ibrahim Adamu Bakori revealed that the accused face charges in magistrate courts across Nomansland and Gyadi-Gyadi for offenses such as criminal conspiracy, disorderly conduct, possession of offensive weapons, election material snatching, vote solicitation, and misuse of vehicles on election day. 

Authorities allege many of these individuals were “imported from within and outside the state” with plans to disrupt the electoral process. 

Recovered weapons and items include:

1. 1 pump-action rifle

2. 5 locally made guns

3. 94 long sticks, 16 swords, 18 cutlasses, 32 barandami weapons, 18 knives

4. 1 bow, 23 arrows, 7 catapults, 45 stones

5. 14 vehicles

6. 2 ballot boxes, 163 thumb-printed ballot papers

7. ₦4.048 million in cash alleged to be used for vote inducement 

Meanwhile, in Ogun State, security operatives detained 10 suspected cultists in Sagamu for allegedly plotting to interfere with the by-election. 

The arrests were made at a local hotel following intelligence from Assistant Inspector-General Adegoke Fayoade. 

The suspects confessed that a serving member of the state House of Assembly recruited them, promising money and advanced weaponry for the operation. The police praised the swift action as a firm message against election intimidation. 

Legal and Civic Implications

Justice and human rights advocates view the arrests as critical to maintaining electoral integrity. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, commented that the violent disruptions validate a controversial Canadian court ruling which labeled Nigeria’s two main political parties, APC and PDP, as terrorist organizations.