Zamfara APC Alleges Plan to Use Armed Vigilantes in Upcoming Bye-Election

The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised concerns over the possible use of illegal armed groups, known locally as Yansakai, during the upcoming bye-election for the Kaura Namoda South State House of Assembly seat scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025.

The party’s claim was made in a statement issued by its State Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris, in Gusau.

Idris alleged that some politicians are planning to recruit illegal security outfits to interfere with the electoral process.

“We have observed suspicious movements of miscreants believed to be mobilized for the bye-election,” he stated. “This raises serious concerns about voter safety and the credibility of the process.”

He further accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of planning to use these illegal groups in a bid to secure victory at any cost.

“This is a dangerous move by the PDP, aimed at manipulating the election in their favour, regardless of the consequences—even if it results in injuries or loss of life,” Idris claimed.

The APC urged security agencies to intervene promptly, stressing that only constitutionally recognized security bodies such as the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) should be involved in securing the election.

In response, PDP’s State Publicity Secretary, Halliru Andi, dismissed the APC’s claims as unfounded.

“All the allegations by the APC are false and baseless,” Andi said. “They are simply a reflection of the party’s desperation and fear of losing the election.”

He urged security agencies and voters to disregard the APC’s statement, describing it as a tactic to distract the public and create unnecessary tension.