At least 3.5 million eligible voters are expected to cast their ballots in the Katsina State Local Government Elections, taking place across 34 LGAs, 361 wards, and 6,652 polling units.
Voting began at 9:05 am in most locations, with a strong turnout, particularly among women, youth, and the elderly, amid tight security.
Governor Dikko Radda, his wife Zulaihat, and Deputy Governor Faruk Jobe were among the prominent figures who cast their votes, alongside former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Governors Ibrahim Shema and Aminu Masari.
Governor Radda praised the high voter turnout, stating it demonstrated the maturity of democracy in the state. He assured voters that their ballots would be counted and expressed confidence in APC’s victory, citing the administration’s achievements since 2023.
The Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission (KTSIEC) has assured a peaceful and credible election, with five parties participating: APC, Accord Party, Booth Party, AAC, and ADC. However, 86 other parties, including the PDP, opted out.
On February 13, KTSIEC distributed sensitive election materials across the 34 LGAs, ensuring they were customised for each location. Chairman Alhaji Lawal Alhassan Faskari confirmed that security agencies had been mobilised to ensure a smooth process.
To maintain order, the Katsina State Police Command imposed movement restrictions from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm on election day. Commissioner CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa urged residents to comply, assuring adequate security for voters and officials.