Kano Rerun:PDP Condemns Violence, Thuggery,Intimidation
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The People’s Democracy Party(PDP) in Kano State has condemned the violence, thuggery and intimidation that characterized the just-concluded bye-election and rerun election in the state.
The bye-election was held in Bagwai/Shanono State House of Assembly Constituency and Ghari/Tsanyawa State House of Assembly Constituency, amid widespread violence and intimidation of voters.
The condemnation was contained in a statement signed by the Chairman of the party, Yusuf Ado Kibiya.
“We are alarmed by reports of intimidation, thuggery and other actions that undermine the democratic process. The use of violence or the threat of violence to influence voters, candidates, or the outcome of the election is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
“Such conduct not only endangers lives but destroys public trust in our 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 interests,” Kibiya said.
He urged Law Enforcement and Security Agencies to uphold the right to peaceful assembly, protect voters, and decisively deter any form of intimidation, violence, or vote- buying.
He also called on the Kano State Government and national leaders to refrain from inflammatory statements and actions that escalate tensions and to demonstrate commitment to a transparent, credible and peaceful electoral process.
The chairman also asked authorities to promptly investigate any reported violation of electoral laws and sanction offenders in accordance with the law, to deter future misconduct.
“We reiterate our firm commitment to a peaceful campaign, respect for the rule of law, and the inclusive participation of all citizens in shaping their governance.
“The PDP calls on all stakeholders, especially the APC and other parties, to engage in issue – based campaigning and to reject violence, intimidation, and other anti-democratic tactics.
“Let it be known: a free and fair bye – election is the foundation of representative democracy. We urge all authorities to act decisively to safeguard that principle and to ensure the will of the people is reflected, without fear or favor,” the party added.