24-Hour Curfew Declared in Kano State Following Election Tribunal Verdict

In a swift and unexpected turn of events, a 24-hour curfew has been declared in Kano State following the verdict of the election petitions tribunal, which resulted in the removal of the state’s governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf.

Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Usaini Gumel, issued a statement personally, announcing the imposition of the curfew. He revealed that a coordinated team of security personnel has been deployed throughout the city to enforce this curfew.

“In accordance with the constitutional duty of the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant internal security and law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and order in the state, the Kano State Police Command has formulated strategies for this purpose,” Commissioner Gumel stated.

Residents of Kano State are urged to take note that a joint force of security personnel has been dispatched to all corners of the state, including its entry and exit points, to ensure the strict compliance of the 24-hour curfew. This curfew order was communicated by the State Government via a letter with Reference No: K/SEC/H/435/T.1/153, dated September 20, 2023. It is scheduled to be in effect from 6pm on Wednesday, September 20, to 6pm on Thursday, September 21, 2023.

Commissioner Gumel issued a stern warning to potential violators, stating, “Violators will be arrested and face the full force of the law.”

The announcement of the curfew has left the residents of Kano State in a state of apprehension, particularly in the wake of the election tribunal’s judgment, which declared Nasir Yusuf Gawuna of the APC as the winner of the elections. In response, residents have hurriedly closed their shops and businesses, fearing potential attacks by miscreants.

It is worth noting that Kano State experienced widespread looting, vandalism, and arson back in March, following the initial declaration of Governor Yusuf as the election winner. The imposition of this curfew is likely an attempt to prevent a repeat of such incidents and maintain law and order in the state.

The situation in Kano State remains tense, with security forces on high alert as they work to enforce the curfew and ensure the safety of residents during this critical period.