Sokoto State Police Establish Specialized Legal Team to Tackle Electoral Offenses Ahead of 2023 General Elections
The Sokoto State Command of the Nigerian Police Force has established a specialized legal team to manage all electoral offenses connected to the 2023 general elections in the state. CP Muhammad Usaini Gummel, the state's Commissioner of Police, made the announcement while presenting the team to the press at the state police headquarters on Monday.
The specialized unit, made up of trained personnel, has been authorized to collect, evaluate, and document complaints, as well as investigate and prosecute those found to be involved in unlawful activities during and after the elections. The team comprises police attorneys, forensic experts, and other experienced individuals who specialize in evidence-based investigation, questioning, and technology-driven trial procedures.
The Legal/Prosecution unit is headed by AC-SCID leader ACP Yakubu Isah, who is joined by other senior police officials. According to the commissioner, the decision to establish the team was made to address concerns raised by the public about how to ensure speedy justice delivery, particularly with respect to the critical Electioneering procedures, which are now underway.
The police command is calling on members of the public, especially politicians, to advise their supporters to avoid violence and other similar activities as a means of resolving perceived injustices during the ongoing general elections. The police and other relevant security agencies in the state are already collaborating with INEC Legal Team alongside Federal and the State Directorates of Public Prosecutions (DPPs) for the desired legal advice going forward.
The police command reminds politicians and the general public that the national interest, love, and survival of its people are more important than individual or group political interests. Members of the public are also urged to report any electoral-related complaints to the Nigerian Police Force in Sokoto and refrain from acts such as street protests that could lead to destruction of property and loss of lives.