The police say it is ready to provide security in Kano during the February 25 presidential election.

Police commissioner Manman Dauda gave the assurance on Monday.

Mr Dauda said police and other security agencies in Kano were working to ensure a crisis-free poll beyond the election.

He explained that an operational order to provide security at each polling unit across the 44 council areas was issued to area commanders, and divisional police officers had adequately been briefed on various security measures to be adopted to ensure smooth implementation of the electoral process in their respective places of supervision.

“We have mobilised sufficient armed personnel to provide security before, during and after the election,” the police commissioner said. “I am giving 100 per cent assurance to all law-abiding residents of the state that they can go about freely to exercise their franchise on February 25 without threat to lives and property.”

Mr Dauda stressed that the security measures would enable eligible voters to participate in all electoral processes without threat to lives and property.

“We have put in place various security methods to enable residents to have the opportunity to participate in electing leaders of their choice in a peaceful political atmosphere,” he added.

The police commissioner advised leaders of political parties and candidates to tell their supporters to shun all forms of violence and thuggery before, during and after the election.

He said that anyone or group of people found wanting would be arrested and prosecuted.

“We will provide a level-playing ground for all political parties to operate optimally as the programme of transition is being implemented. We will not tolerate any act capable of bringing confusion before, during and after the election; any person or groups found disobeying orders would be arrested and prosecuted,” he stated.

The commissioner called on parents not to allow their children to be used as political thugs, as any person or group found wanting will be dealt with accordingly.

(NAN)