From Tunde Omolehin, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on security has warned political leaders, candidates, and youths in the state against using illicit weapons during political campaigns.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Usaini Gumel, said the Command in collaboration with other members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Elections Security (ICCES) will commence aggressive crime prevention efforts including stop and search operations to weed off persons found wielding dangerous weapons at campaigns rallies in all parts of the state.
“This came to the fore as campaign movements by various political parties are being intensified and the decision to embark on the drastic measures came after a careful review of the ongoing campaign activities and gross violations of electoral acts.
“Members of the committee described as worrisome the way party supporters, especially youths, sighted wielding dangerous weapons in violation of the electoral laws.
“By this notice members of the public are hereby notified that there will henceforth be a thorough check along all identified routes and exit points in the State.”
The CP further stated that the committee sought for support and cooperation of law-abiding citizens on the foregoing, “politicians are hereby advised to prevail on their followers to be cautious and law-abiding.
“Violators will be arrested and arraigned in court for appropriate sanctions in accordance with the provision of the law and the electoral act of 2022,” the police boss said.