The Nigerian government has announced the temporary closure of its border with the Niger Republic to enhance security, curb cross-border crimes, and protect the integrity of the by-election scheduled for Saturday.
Electoral stakeholders have emphasized that the move is aimed at preventing potential threats and ensuring the election proceeds without any external interference.
Jigawa State, which shares a border with the Niger Republic through several local government areas—including Babura, the constituency headquarters of the Garki/Babura Federal Constituency—will be the site of the upcoming by-election.
The decision to close the border was reached during a strategic meeting between officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and heads of various security agencies held on Wednesday in Dutse, the state capital.
The Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, CP Dahiru Muhammad, revealed that all security agencies will carry out a two-day show of force across Garki and Babura LGAs on Thursday and Friday to demonstrate their preparedness to maintain law and order.
As part of the broader security framework, the border with Niger Republic will be temporarily closed from 12:00 a.m. on Friday to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, the day of the election.
“This measure is essential to prevent any external influence or interference in the electoral process,” he stated.
Although the closure may disrupt some cross-border activities, the commissioner noted it is a necessary step to uphold the credibility of the election.
A comprehensive three-layer security arrangement—comprising outer, middle, and inner layers—will be deployed across all polling units within the constituency to safeguard voters, election officials, and other stakeholders.
Additionally, a main security situation room will be established in Babura town to serve as the operational center for all security activities during the election period.
An emergency contact number will also be provided for the public to report incidents before, during, or after the election.
The commissioner emphasized that all security agencies will work jointly to ensure a smooth and peaceful election. Strategic locations across the constituency will receive maximum security coverage.
He assured residents that all necessary preparations are in place and encouraged eligible voters to come out in large numbers to exercise their democratic rights.
He also commended INEC for its collaboration and praised the security agencies for their commitment to maintaining peace and order.
Security agencies across the state have pledged to work together to provide a safe environment and ensure the successful conduct of the by-election.
