The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State of thumb printing fresh ballot papers in custody of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In some short video clips which went viral on social media, the PDP’s State Collation Agent, Comrade Danjuma Bello Sarki and some other members of the party, were seen displaying some ballot papers, which according to them were just thumb printed by the APC members in the INEC’s custody.
The PDP members however vowed to present the said ballot papers as evidences against ruling APC in the ongoing Gubernatorial Election Petition Tribunal.
Though, attempt to get INEC’s reaction to the allegation was not successful, as calls put across to the Commission’s Head of Publicity and Voter Education Department in Kaduna, Ruqqaiyya S. Imam were not responded to.
However, Kaduna State Secretary of the APC, Yahaya Baba Pate in his swift reaction through a press statement, accused the opposition party of an attempt to mislead the Gubernatorial Elections Tribunal and the Public.
According to Pate, “The All Progressives Congress (APC) Kaduna State Chapter condemns in strong terms the attempt by the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to mislead the Gubernatorial Elections Tribunal and the public. In the party’s desperate bid to rescue its fatally flawed case, it has resorted to mutilating ballot papers and blaming it on the APC.
“Contrary to the PDP’s false claims, the APC has always been committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and adherence to the rule law. We categorically deny any involvement or intention to thumbprint ballot papers ahead of their admission as evidence in court. Such baseless accusations are nothing more than an attempt by the PDP to divert attention from their own misconduct and discredit the ongoing tribunal proceedings.
“The APC calls on the PDP to stop deploying subterfuge in their desperate attempt to gain undue advantage at the Gubernatorial Elections Tribunal. We urge them to respect the judicial process, present their case with credible evidence, and refrain from spreading misinformation that undermines the credibility of the tribunal and the democratic institutions of our great nation.
“The APC remains confident in the impartiality and fairness of the Gubernatorial Elections Tribunal. We trust that the tribunal will conduct a thorough and unbiased examination of the facts presented before it, ensuring that justice is served and the will of the people is upheld.
“The APC reiterates its commitment to the democratic process, good governance, and the overall development of Kaduna State. We will continue to work tirelessly to fulfill the aspirations and expectations of the people, delivering on our promises and building a brighter future for all.
“We wish to call on the security agencies to beam their searchlight on the PDP elements who staged this drama. This charade must not be allowed to continue,” APC said.
