Nigeria: Rerun gubernatorial elections in six states March 23 /update 7

Event

Gubernatorial elections will take place once again in six states, including Adamawa, Bauchi, Sokoto, Kano, Benue, and Plateau states on Saturday, March 23. Initial elections took place on March 9, but were declared inconclusive in these states because the difference between the votes gotten by the two leading parties (All Progressives Congress - APC and the People's Democratic Party - PDP) is less than the number of canceled votes. Hence, the electoral body cannot declare one party winner. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected on March 23. Election-related violence surrounding the vote is possible.

On a related note, the electoral process was suspended in Rivers State due to electoral violence, reports of voters being intimidated by criminals and security operatives, and numerous electoral malpractices. It remains unclear when a rerun vote will be scheduled in this state.

Meanwhile, a dusk-to-dawn curfew, from 18:00 to 04:00 (local time) has been imposed until further notice on March 11, in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba state, after celebrations over the victory of the nexly-elected state governor, turned violent.

Context

Nigeria held gubernatorial and state legislative elections on Saturday, March 9, following nationwide presidential elections on February 23. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reported "widespread disruption" at polling places, including intimidation and some reports of violence.

Advice

Individuals in Nigeria are advised to monitor the situation, avoid public political demonstrations due to the risk of violence, anticipate a heightened security presence and localized disruptions during any reelection dates, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Nigeria remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.