Kano PDP Rejects Shanono/Bagwai Bye-Election Results, Alleges Violence and Irregularities

The Kano State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected the results of Saturday’s bye-election for the Shanono/Bagwai State Constituency, citing widespread intimidation, thuggery, and electoral irregularities.

Speaking to journalists in Kano, PDP State Chairman Yusuf Ado Kibiya condemned the conduct of the poll as unacceptable and called for an immediate investigation into the reported 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 has already burdened our constituents, who deserve a transparent, peaceful, and credible election process,” Kibiya said.

He decried reports of violence and voter harassment, warning that such actions undermine democracy and erode public trust.

“The use of intimidation or violence to influence voters or skew election outcomes is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” he added.

Kibiya accused unnamed actors of manipulating the electoral process for partisan gain and urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all parties. He stressed the importance of strict enforcement of electoral laws, timely deployment of election materials, and robust voter protection.

He also called on security agencies to safeguard citizens’ right to vote freely and to act decisively against violence, intimidation, or vote-buying.

Furthermore, Kibiya urged the Kano State Government and national leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric that could escalate political tensions. He reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to peaceful participation and respect for the rule of law.

“The PDP calls on all stakeholders, especially the APC and other political parties, to focus on issue-based campaigns and reject anti-democratic tactics. A free and fair bye-election is the foundation of representative democracy, and the authorities must act decisively to uphold this principle,” he concluded.