A by-election to fill two vacant seats in the Kano State House of Assembly on Saturday, witnessed low voter turnout and absence of three major opposition parties from the ballot papers.
The exercise, conducted in the Kano Municipal Local Government Area, is aimed at replacing two lawmakers who died last year. The deceased legislators were members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) before their passing.
However, ballot papers prepared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not include the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), NNPP, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a development that has sparked reactions among political observers in the state.
Reports from several polling units indicated that as of mid-morning, only a handful of voters had shown up to cast their ballots, despite early arrival and full deployment of INEC officials. Voting materials were seen neatly arranged, with officials waiting patiently for more constituents to participate in the process.
Security presence was visibly strong across the affected areas, with personnel stationed at polling centres to ensure order and protect electoral staff and voters. Despite the heavy deployment, turnout remained thin in many locations visited.
Observers say the absence of the three opposition parties and the low voter participation may influence both the credibility and competitiveness of the exercise. As voting continued, stakeholders expressed hope that more residents would come out before the close of polls.
Kano Assembly By-election records low turnout, exclusion of 3 parties from ballot papers
