On Saturday, November 1st, 2025, violent clashes occurred during the local government council election in Niger State at the Basheri polling unit in Kontagora LGA as election results were being collated.
During the incident, one person has been confirmed dead after police officers allegedly opened fire sporadically in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State to chase electorates, following the declaration of the local government election results. This incident reportedly occurred on Sunday evening shortly after the incumbent chairman, Jibril Abdullahi Muregi, was declared the winner of the November 1 local government election.
Therefore, tension in the area escalated, with residents accusing the authorities of intentionally imposing Muregi on the people ahead of the poll. The Muregi’s candidacy generated different comments and widespread discontent when the residents noticed that Muregi was handpicked by the state Governor, Umar Bago.
Furthermore, following the arrival of former Niger State Commissioner for Finance, Lawal Maikano, whose presence reportedly angered local youths to cause chaos during the results announcement—a confrontation ensued, prompting police to open fire to control the situation, resulting in the death of Shehu Bello and injuries to two others. Medical efforts are ongoing for the wounded, with one undergoing surgery and another transferred to a specialist hospital.
Electoral processes in some areas such as Magama were disrupted by hoodlums who set election materials ablaze and snatched ballot boxes in others. Security concerns, including threats and attacks on electoral officials, contributed to the chaotic atmosphere surrounding the elections.
Authorities confirmed arrests following skirmishes, while state officials urged voters to maintain peace and faith in democratic processes.
