In a significant security operation, the Bauchi State Police Command has arrested 172 suspects and rescued 29 kidnapped victims ahead of the upcoming 2027 general elections. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure a peaceful electoral process in the state, as disclosed in a press release on October 20, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib.

The operations also led to the recovery of four AK-47 rifles, various other weapons, motor vehicles, motorcycles, counterfeit US dollars, and assorted mobile phones. These measures come in response to growing concerns about electoral violence and security threats as the elections draw near.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ibrahim Baba Zango, who oversees the North-East geopolitical zone, visited Bauchi to assess the security situation. His visit aimed to strengthen the police's preparedness for the elections and to ensure the safety of citizens and property. Zango expressed gratitude to the Bauchi State Government and other stakeholders for their support in fostering a peaceful electoral environment.

During his visit, Zango emphasized the need for timely intelligence sharing among security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and community leaders to mitigate potential threats. He urged police officers assigned to election duties to maintain professionalism and respect the rights of citizens.

Bauchi's Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, described the DIG's visit as timely and aligned with the Inspector-General of Police’s vision for credible elections. He outlined the command's operational structure and highlighted the challenges of political thuggery and the destruction of campaign materials as key concerns for the upcoming elections.

To address these challenges, the police command has initiated several security measures, including securing INEC offices and political party locations, conducting clearance operations in identified criminal hideouts, and engaging with political stakeholders and traditional rulers to promote peace. The establishment of an Election Situation Room and an Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security has also been prioritized.

Aliyu has called for additional personnel and equipment to enhance security across Bauchi's 5,423 polling units. He requested support from the Inspector-General of Police for operational vehicles, anti-riot equipment, communication gadgets, drones, and CCTV cameras, as well as the establishment of two additional Police Mobile Force squadrons.

In response to these requests, Zango commended the proactive measures taken by the Bauchi State Police Command and assured that the observations would be presented to the Inspector-General for necessary action. The command remains committed to ensuring a peaceful, free, and fair electoral process in Bauchi State as the 2027 elections approach.