The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State has rejected the outcome of last Saturday’s by-elections in three constituencies, accusing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of widespread irregularities, intimidation, and what it described as “Gestapo-style tactics” to subvert the will of the people.
The elections, conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on August 16, were held to fill vacant seats in the Basawa State Constituency, Zaria Kewaye State Constituency, and the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency.
In a strongly worded statement signed by its State Chairman, Sir Edward Percy Masha, the PDP declared it would not recognize the results, insisting the process fell far short of democratic standards.
“We reject the outcome of the elections in all three constituencies. We will be meeting with our candidates, stakeholders, and legal team to determine our next course of action,” Masha said.
The opposition party alleged that its candidate for the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency and members of his campaign committee were abducted on election day by agents allegedly linked to the APC. It further accused the ruling party of seizing campaign funds earmarked for logistics and allowances for party agents.
“These unlawful actions were carried out in full public glare. The APC shamelessly disregarded democratic principles, resorting to intimidation, vote buying, and harassment because it was unsettled by the PDP’s growing mass appeal,” the statement read.
Party leaders described the incidents as part of a larger pattern of desperation by the Uba Sani-led government, accusing the ruling party of adopting “commando-style tactics” to suppress opposition participation.
The PDP also expressed concern over what it called historically low voter turnout, which it attributed to the state government’s alleged mishandling of the democratic process—particularly the failure to conduct local government elections in 2024.
“The low turnout we witnessed is a testament to the lack of confidence in the electoral process. If this undemocratic trend continues, voter apathy will worsen and may reach a dangerous peak by 2027,” Masha warned.
The party further cautioned that the erosion of public trust in elections would undermine democracy in Kaduna State and across Nigeria.
Despite its grievances, the PDP expressed gratitude to its supporters in the affected constituencies:
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the good people of Basawa, Zaria Kewaye, and Chikun/Kajuru for standing by the PDP. Your unwavering commitment will never be taken for granted,” Masha said.
The by-elections were held amid heightened political tension, with the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency drawing particular national interest due to its history as a PDP stronghold and its strategic significance in Kaduna politics.
