The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi-Ata, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the recently held Bagwai/Shanono State Constituency by-election in Kano State, citing widespread violence and electoral malpractice.
Addressing journalists in Kano on Sunday, Abdullahi-Ata alleged that the electoral process was marred by intimidation, attacks, and disenfranchisement, claiming that the level of disruption rendered the election unacceptable.
“Thugs armed with dangerous weapons invaded Bagwai and Shanono Local Government Areas as early as 5 a.m. on election day. They harassed residents, attacked voters, and forcefully took over polling areas,” the minister stated.
According to him, the residence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the constituency was also targeted in the violence, and despite early warnings to security agencies, the situation spiraled out of control.
The by-election was organized to fill the vacant seat following the death of Hon. Halilu Ibrahim-Kundila in April 2024.
However, Abdullahi-Ata said the people of Bagwai/Shanono were ultimately denied their right to vote due to the orchestrated violence.
“The people have waited patiently for this opportunity to elect their representative, only to be met with chaos and fear. What happened on Saturday is not just unfortunate — it is undemocratic,” he said.
He urged INEC to cancel the exercise and schedule a new, credible election, calling for a process that upholds transparency, fairness, and the safety of voters.
In addition, Abdullahi-Ata demanded that security agencies investigate and prosecute those responsible for the violence.
“An election marred by violence is no election at all. The foundation of democracy is the people’s right to vote freely and safely. This must be protected at all costs,” the minister emphasized.
He also appealed to APC supporters and constituents to remain calm and law-abiding while awaiting further directives.
