The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has emerged victorious in the Bagwai/Shanono State Assembly by-election in Kano State, held on Saturday. The NNPP candidate, Dr. Ali Kiyawa, garnered 16,198 votes, defeating his closest rival, Ahmad Kadamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who secured 5,347 votes.
Election Outcome
The Returning Officer for the election, Professor Hassan Shitu, declared Dr. Kiyawa winner at 12:36 am on Sunday. This victory further strengthens NNPP’s presence in Kano politics, where the party maintains significant grassroots support.
Allegations of Electoral Malpractice
However, the election was marred by controversy, with allegations of vote-buying and electoral malpractice. Contrary to reports, there is no available information confirming the involvement of Nigeria Army officials in facilitating corruption and vote-buying during the election. Instead, the police arrested over 288 suspected political thugs, and recovered weapons during the election.
Reaction from Party Leaders
NNPP National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, dismissed APC’s claims of electoral irregularities, describing them as “frivolous and bereft of facts and reality”. Johnson insisted that the poll was peaceful, credible, and reflective of the party’s dominance in Kano.
APC’s Concerns
The APC, on the other hand, expressed concerns over the election, alleging violence and disruption by armed gangs at several polling units. Felix Morka, APC National Publicity Secretary, called for the cancellation of the poll, citing these irregularities.
The outcome of the by-election reflects the intense competition between the ruling NNPP and its major opposition, the APC, in Kano State politics. As the NNPP maintains its grip on the State House of Assembly, the party’s victory in the Bagwai/Shanono constituency by-election further solidifies its position.
