Nigerian officials from the All Progressives Congress (APC) have called for the cancellation of a recent rerun election in Kano State, alleging widespread violence and voter intimidation orchestrated by the opposition New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Yusuf Abdullahi Atta, speaking on behalf of APC stakeholders, claimed armed groups linked to the NNPP forced residents to flee polling areas in Bagwai and Shanono local governments during Saturday’s vote, rendering the process illegitimate.
The rerun, held to fill a state assembly seat left vacant since lawmaker Halilu Ibrahim Kundila’s death in April 2023, followed a pre-election peace agreement between political parties to avoid violence. Atta highlighted an APC rally on August 13 as evidence of their compliance, describing it as a “peaceful” event led by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin. However, he accused the NNPP of violating the pact by mobilizing armed individuals from neighboring states and regions, including Kaduna, Kebbi, and Katsina.
“By 5 a.m. on election day, thousands of armed militants invaded these areas in hundreds of vehicles,” Atta stated, alleging coordinated attacks on APC supporters and the party’s candidate, whose residence was reportedly targeted. Despite alerts to security agencies, he said the groups overwhelmed villages before police intervention, causing residents to flee to neighboring districts like Gwarzo and Bichi.
The minister further claimed NNPP members hijacked ballot materials, manipulated votes, and disenfranchised voters, calling the exercise a “charade.” He urged Nigeria’s electoral commission, INEC, to nullify the results, emphasizing that an election “marred by violence is no election at all.” Security agencies were pressed to prosecute arrested suspects, while displaced voters began returning home Sunday afternoon.
The allegations underscore recurring tensions in Nigerian elections, where political rivalries often escalate into violence. While the NNPP has yet to respond, Atta framed the incident as a threat to democratic norms: “The integrity of our democratic process is paramount. We owe it to future generations to defend it.” The incident highlights challenges in ensuring free and fair polls in regions with volatile political climates, raising questions about enforcement of electoral safeguards and accountability.
