Minister Demands Cancellation Of Bagwai/Shanono Bye-election
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Minister of State For Housing and Urban Development, Alhaji Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) to immediately cancel the Bagwai/Shanono State Constituency bye-election in Kano State, describing the poll as a “Charade.”
Ata,who made the call while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the election in Kano on Sunday, also urged INEC to conduct a fresh election for the constituency.
“We call on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately cancel this charade and fix a date for the conduct of a fresh, free, fair and transparent election for the peace-loving people of Bagwai/Shanono State Constituency,” he said.
He alleged that armed thugs were mobilised from within and outside Kano to disrupt the process, thereby disenfranchising voters.
According to him, the thugs invaded the two local government areas of Bagwai and Shanono as early as 5 a.m. on election day, wielding dangerous weapons and chasing away residents from their homes and polling units.
The minister also alleged that the residence of the All Progressives Congress candidate for the constituency came under attack, adding that early reports and alerts sent to security agencies did not prevent the violence.
He said the electorate in Bagwai/Shanono, who had been awaiting the by-election since the death of their former representative, Hon. Halilu Ibrahim-Kundila, in April 2024, were denied the opportunity to exercise their franchise.
“We also call on the security agencies to prosecute all those arrested in connection with the violence,” he said.
The minister urged APC supporters and residents of the constituency to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that the sanctity of democracy must be preserved.
“The foundation of democracy is the right of the people to vote freely and safely for candidates of their choice. An election marred by violence is no election at all,” he added.