Nigeria will temporarily close its border with Niger Republic to curb cross-border crimes and protect the integrity of Saturday’s by-election in Jigawa State.
The decision, announced after a meeting between Independent National Electoral Commission officials and security agency heads in Dutse on Wednesday, August 13, is targeted at preventing security threats and external interference in the Garki/Babura Federal Constituency poll.
Jigawa shares a border with Niger Republic through several local government areas, including Babura, the constituency headquarters.
Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, CP Dahiru Muhammad, said security agencies will stage a two-day show of force in Garki and Babura from Thursday to Friday to demonstrate their readiness to maintain order.
He explained that the border closure will take effect from 12 am on Friday until 6 pm on Saturday.
“This is aimed at preventing any external interference or influence on the election. The temporary border closure is expected to impact on cross-border activities, and it is necessary for us to ensure the integrity of the election,” Muhammad said.
The police chief disclosed that a three-layer security arrangement will be in place across polling units.
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“This is aimed at ensuring the safety of voters, election officials, and other stakeholders,” he noted.
According to him, a main security situation room will be stationed in Babura to coordinate operations, and an emergency phone line will be available for reporting incidents before, during, or after the poll.
He added that all security agencies will work jointly to ensure success.
“Strategic locations will be provided with maximum security during the election period,” he explained.
Muhammad assured residents that all measures have been taken for a peaceful election and encouraged voters to turn out in large numbers.
He also thanked INEC for its cooperation and security agencies for their commitment to maintaining law and order.
Security agencies in the state have pledged to collaborate fully to guarantee a safe voting environment.