The Kebbi State Police Command has attributed the recent political violence in the state to the unauthorised use of sirens and premature campaign activities by rival political groups.
Commissioner of Police, Sani Bello, disclosed this on Monday in Birnin Kebbi while briefing journalists after a closed-door security meeting with Governor Nasir Idris.
The meeting followed an attack earlier in the day on the convoy of former Minister of Justice and leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the state, Abubakar Malami.
The incident occurred in Birnin Kebbi, where suspected political thugs targeted Malami shortly after he returned from a condolence visit.
Malami described the assault as politically motivated. His party has recently gained momentum in neighbouring Sokoto State after mass defections from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the ADC-led coalition.
Bello condemned what he called “a growing disregard for electoral guidelines and public safety regulations,” stressing that such conduct could inflame tensions ahead of the elections.
“The unauthorised use of sirens by politicians and their supporters, coupled with campaign activities outside the approved period, is fueling rivalry and increasing the risk of violence,” the police commissioner warned.
He assured that security agencies would not hesitate to act decisively against offenders. “We will not tolerate any act capable of threatening peace and public order in Kebbi State.
Anyone caught using illegal sirens or engaging in premature political campaigns will face the full weight of the law,” he said.
Bello confirmed that an investigation into the convoy attack was underway, with efforts ongoing to identify and arrest the perpetrators.
He urged politicians and their supporters to respect electoral rules and prioritise the stability of the state over partisan interests.