Zamfara State chapters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have accused each other of undermining the integrity of the recent Kaura Namoda South by-election, citing widespread irregularities.
PDP State Chairman, Dr. Jamilu Magayaki, expressed satisfaction with the voter turnout and the orderly behavior of the electorate during a press briefing.
However, he alleged that APC officials, in collusion with certain security personnel, disrupted the process.
“What occurred in Sakajiki and Kyambarawa was not an election. PDP officials and members were chased away from numerous polling units,” Magayaki claimed.
He further accused security operatives of openly aiding APC efforts to manipulate the process, leaving PDP supporters disenfranchised in several areas.
Despite reported intimidation at polling centers, Magayaki praised voters for their resilience and urged those in the affected polling units in Sakajiki and Kyambarawa to remain steadfast and participate robustly in the upcoming rerun election.
In a counter-statement from Gusau, APC Publicity Secretary Alh. Yusuf Idris accused the PDP of deploying thugs and Community Protection Guards to disrupt the by-election.
“The government in power used unlawful tactics to intimidate and harass voters, yet the people remained determined,” Idris stated.
He commended voters for their perseverance amid challenging conditions during the State Assembly by-election.
Idris alleged that manipulation efforts were underway to alter the inconclusive results but expressed confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold electoral integrity.
“We trust INEC will resist any attempts at malpractice,” he said, urging APC members, supporters, and the public to remain calm pending INEC’s final decision.
He emphasized that the APC leadership would fiercely oppose any efforts to subvert the will of Kaura Namoda South voters.
