The Sokoto State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of no fewer than 79 suspects during the just-concluded governorship and House of Assembly election in the state.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Sanusi Abubakar, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday.
According to the statement, the suspects were arrested for different offences ranging from violation of movement restriction order, vote buying and destruction of ballot boxes to political thuggery, threats and inciting public disturbances at polling units among others.
The statement read,
“During this period, a total number of 79 suspects were arrested. All the electoral offences among them were fully investigated and transferred to INEC for prosecution while others that contravened the penal code have been charged to court by the police. However, others are still under investigation.
“Given the foregoing, the Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Command, CP Muhammed Gumel, enjoins all members of the public to be wary of allowing themselves, their love ones or their political party affiliates from getting involved in actions that are repugnant to natural justice, equity and good conscience of law, especially given the forthcoming supplementary elections in the state.”
The command assured residents of its commitment to the protection of lives and property.