The Kano State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally rejected the outcome of Saturday's bye-election for the Shanono/Bagwai state constituency, alleging widespread intimidation, thuggery, and electoral irregularities.
PDP State Chairman, Yusuf Ado Kibiya, while addressing journalists in Kano, condemned the electoral process as deeply flawed and called for an immediate investigation into what he described as serious breaches of electoral laws.
"We, the Peoples Democratic Party in Kano State, express deep concern over the conduct of the Shanono/Bagwai by-election. The death of the former representative last year already placed a heavy burden on our constituents, who deserve a transparent, peaceful, and credible process," Kibiya stated.
The PDP chairman specifically highlighted reports of violence and voter harassment during the electoral process, warning that such actions fundamentally undermine democratic principles and erode public confidence in the electoral system.
"The use of intimidation or violence to influence voters or tilt the outcome of an election is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms," he emphasized.
In his allegations, Kibiya accused unnamed political actors of attempting to manipulate the electoral process for partisan advantage. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all participating political parties by enforcing electoral rules, ensuring timely deployment of election materials, and providing adequate protection for voters.
The PDP chairman also called on security agencies to fulfill their constitutional responsibility of protecting citizens' right to vote freely without fear of intimidation, while decisively addressing incidents of violence, intimidation, or vote-buying that may arise during elections.
Additionally, Kibiya urged both the Kano State Government and national leaders to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric that could heighten political tensions in the state. He reaffirmed his party's commitment to peaceful participation in the democratic process and respect for the rule of law.
"The PDP calls on all stakeholders, particularly the APC and other political parties, to engage in issue-based campaigns and reject anti-democratic tactics. A free and fair by-election is the foundation of representative democracy, and the authorities must act decisively to safeguard that principle," he concluded.
This development comes amid increasing concerns about electoral integrity in Nigeria's local and state-level elections, with opposition parties frequently alleging manipulation by ruling parties at various levels of government.
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