The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies have concluded plans to ensure a smooth by-election in Kano State scheduled for Saturday.
Gatekeepers News reports that INEC fixed February 21, 2026, for the by-election to fill two vacant seats in the Kano State House of Assembly following the death of lawmakers Sarki Aliyu and Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo on the same day.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Kano, Abdu Zango, gave the assurance after a meeting of the inter-agency consultative committee on election security held at the Police Headquarters, Bompai, Kano.
Zango explained that the meeting reviewed preparations, especially security arrangements, ahead of the polls. He disclosed that security agencies had earlier been directed to develop a joint operational plan for the election, which has now been submitted and assessed.
Expressing confidence in the process, the REC said the by-election would be conducted peacefully and urged eligible voters in the affected constituencies to turn out without fear.
Also speaking, the Kano State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, said security agencies had finalised all necessary arrangements to guarantee hitch-free polls. He noted that there was no known security threat but assured that personnel would be strategically deployed across affected areas to maintain law and order.
Meanwhile, the Kwankwasiyya Movement has criticised what it termed the “accelerated presidential assent” to the controversial amendment of the Electoral Act.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Dr Habibu Sale Mohammed, the group said that despite widespread public protests, civil society advocacy, and expert warnings, President Bola Tinubu’s assent to the amendment raised serious concerns about the future of Nigeria’s democracy.
Kwankwasiyya argued that the public’s call for stronger electoral safeguards, contrary to the stance of the Executive and the National Assembly, highlighted the dangers of unchecked one-party dominance.
According to the group, the passage of the amendment in spite of loud opposition “speaks volumes” about the President’s influence over the legislature.
It further expressed concern over defections of opposition lawmakers to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the trend raises questions about ideological commitment and democratic accountability.
The movement warned that a system gradually tilting towards a one-party state undermines the checks and balances essential to a healthy democracy.
