Kehinde Fajobi
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has opted out of the upcoming local government elections in Kano State, according to Professor Sani Malumfashi, Chairman of the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC).
Addressing the media on Friday, Malumfashi stated, “The main opposition party, which is the APC, has withdrawn from the election as they did not participate in any of the processes.”
The election is set to proceed as planned on Saturday, following a State High Court ruling earlier that day.
“The commission has completed all arrangements to conduct the election in the state on Saturday, in line with the ruling of a Kano State High Court,” Malumfashi affirmed.
The High Court decision comes on the heels of a prior Federal High Court ruling, which halted the council elections, citing the alleged illegal composition of KANSIEC.
Malumfashi outlined that six political parties—NNPP, ZLP, Accord Party, NRPM, AAC, and AA—are participating in the election.
“All six political parties that are participating have adhered to the election timetable and guidelines,” he noted.
Emphasising KANSIEC’s nonpartisan stance, Malumfashi said, “Every activity of the commission is procedural. We are not partisan.”
He urged staff and ad hoc personnel to reject bribery and prevent underage voting.
Additionally, he cautioned politicians against vote-buying, thuggery, and other forms of violence, which violate the state’s electoral guidelines.
“All democrats and advocates of democracy are expected to respect Friday’s Kano High Court judgement, which authorised the election to proceed,” he said.
Earlier, Kano State High Court No. 15 upheld KANSIEC’s authority to conduct the polls, scheduled for October 24, 2024.
In his judgment, Justice Sanusi Ado Maaji confirmed the applicant had proven their case, clearing the way for the election.