The Kaduna State government has dismissed accusations of electoral malpractice ahead of critical by-elections, escalating a war of words with former governor Nasir El-Rufai and opposition parties. In a statement on Thursday, officials rejected claims by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Social Democratic Party (SDP) that the state planned to rig elections scheduled for August 16 in the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency and Zaria’s Sabon-Gari state constituency.
State Information Commissioner Ahmed Maiyaki described the allegations as “baseless and mischievous,” accusing the opposition coalition of attempting to undermine confidence in an election they anticipated losing. “Democracy in Kaduna is thriving, and no theatrics from El-Rufai’s allies will change that,” Maiyaki asserted, referencing the former governor’s support for the ADC-led coalition. He further criticized El-Rufai as a “frustrated politician sinking and eager to drag others down,” distancing the current administration from what it termed “past patterns of violence” under his tenure.
The rebuke followed a press conference by ADC National Vice Chairman (North-West) Jafaru Sani, who—alongside El-Rufai and local party leaders—had accused the state government of orchestrating disruptions through thuggery, voter bribery, and tampering with electoral officials. The coalition warned these tactics could mar the integrity of the polls.
The tense exchange underscores deepening political divides in Kaduna, a key battleground state in northern Nigeria. By-elections for federal and state legislative seats are being closely monitored amid broader concerns about electoral transparency in the region. The current administration, led by Governor Uba Sani, has repeatedly emphasized its commitment to peaceful governance, contrasting itself with what it frames as a more contentious era under El-Rufai.
Analysts note the dispute reflects broader tensions between Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), to which both Sani and El-Rufai belong, and splinter factions ahead of future elections. With voter turnout and security challenges often influencing regional polls, the credibility of electoral processes remains a focal point for domestic and international observers.
As campaigns intensify, the Kaduna government’s sharp dismissal of opposition claims signals its determination to project stability while navigating accusations that could influence voter perception. The outcome of the by-elections is set to test both the ruling party’s grip and the opposition’s ability to mobilize support in a politically volatile landscape.
