Bauchi State Government has demanded the immediate release of three persons arrested by some security operatives during the Zaki and Disina State Constituency bye-elections held on Saturday.
The demand was made by the State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Auwal Jatau, while speaking with journalists shortly after monitoring the smooth conduct of the exercise.
He alleged that the operatives, whom were deployed from Abuja, arrested and intimidated some APM supporters despite committing no offence.
The Deputy Governor made the allegation in Fuchukuwa, Sakuwa Ward of Zaki Local Government Area, shortly after inspecting voting activities at Bakari and Fuchukuwa polling units.
He called on the security authorities concerned to exercise restraint, insisting that there was nothing incriminating against the arrested persons.
Auwal Jatau said his camp would not allow anyone to interfere with the electoral process, while stressing that the APM supporters had been directed not to connive with anyone to rig the election.
Despite his concern over the alleged arrests, the Deputy Governor commended the large turnout of voters.
He also equally applauded INEC officials and police personnel at the polling units he visited for what he described as professional conduct.
Auwal Jatau urged voters and political party agents to remain calm and law abiding, while calling on security personnel to remain at the polling units until voting is concluded and results are transmitted.
He also appealed to all stakeholders to ensure that the bye-election is concluded peacefully and in accordance with the law.