The All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the by-election for Shanono/Bagwai constituency and the Ghari constituency re-run in Kano State, citing widespread violence and disruption.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party alleged that armed thugs attacked several polling units across the constituencies, forcing voters to flee. It added that security personnel deployed to the areas were overwhelmed, making a credible election impossible.
“The APC calls on INEC to immediately cancel the elections in Shanono/Bagwai and Ghari due to extreme violence and intimidation of voters. Proceeding under such brigandage undermines democracy and sets a dangerous precedent,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police announced the arrest of 288 suspected thugs during the re-run polls in Ghari/Tsanyawa and Bagwai/Shanono constituencies.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Bakori, speaking in Shanono, confirmed that the suspects, armed with dangerous weapons, were apprehended while attempting to disrupt the election. He added that they would face trial after investigations are concluded.