The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kano State has expressed deep concern over the conduct of this Saturday’s by-election in Shanono/Bagwai federal constituency, saying, the exercise was characterised by reports of intimidation and thuggery.
The state’s party chairman, Hon. Yusuf Ado Kibiya, raised the concern while briefing journalists on his observation of the electoral process in the constituency.
According to him, the death of the former representative had already placed a heavy burden on the constituents, who deserved a transparent, peaceful, and credible process instead of violence.
He said the use of violence or the threat to influence voters or the outcome of the election was unacceptable and must be condemned, noting that such act do not only endangers lives but destroys public trust in democratic institutions.
“We reject the behaviour observed from some quarters which we believe is aimed at bending the electoral process to the advantage of particular interest,” he stated.
He, therefore, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all the 10 candidates, including that of the PDP.
While calling on all authorities concerned to promptly investigate any reported violation and thereafter sanction offenders in accordance with the law, Hon. Kibiya called on the Kano State Government and NNPP leader to refrain from inflammatory statements and actions that could escalate tensions in the State.
