By-Election: Nigeria to Temporarily Close Niger Republic Border in Jigawa for Security Reasons

In a move aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the upcoming by-election, Nigeria has announced the temporary closure of its border with the Niger Republic in Jigawa State. The decision, according to electoral stakeholders, is part of heightened security measures designed to prevent cross-border crimes and eliminate the risk of external interference during Saturday’s polls.

Jigawa State shares a significant stretch of its border with Niger Republic through multiple local government areas, including Babura, which serves as the constituency headquarters for the Garki/Babura Federal Constituency where the by-election is scheduled.

The announcement came after a high-level security meeting in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and heads of security agencies.

According to Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, CP Dahiru Muhammad, a two-day “show of force” will be conducted from Thursday to Friday in both Garki and Babura LGAs to reassure residents of the security agencies’ preparedness. He confirmed that the border will be shut from 12:00 am on Friday until 6:00 pm on Saturday, the election day.

“This closure is to prevent any external influence or illegal cross-border activity that could undermine the electoral process,” CP Muhammad stated in an interview with The Punch.

Beyond the border closure, a three-layer security arrangement—outer, middle, and inner rings—will be implemented across all polling units to protect voters, INEC officials, and election materials. A central security situation room will be set up in Babura town to coordinate all operations.

Additionally, an emergency telephone line will be available for the public to report incidents before, during, or after the polls. The Commissioner noted that all security agencies will conduct joint patrols and secure strategic locations to ensure smooth electoral proceedings.

CP Muhammad urged voters to turn out in large numbers and assured that all necessary measures have been put in place for a peaceful election. He also commended INEC for its collaboration and thanked all security agencies in the state for their dedication to maintaining law and order.

Security agencies have reaffirmed their commitment to working together to guarantee a safe and transparent voting environment, ensuring that the by-election in Garki/Babura Federal Constituency is conducted without disruption.

Punch