APC Declares Kano LG Elections Illegal Cites Court Order

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State has declared the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, October 26, 2024, as illegal. This assertion was made by party chieftain Rabi’u Bichi during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the same day.

Bichi's statement is based on a court order issued by Justice Simon Amobede of the Federal High Court in Kano, which he claims renders the elections null and void due to findings that the leadership of the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) is biased towards the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

He emphasized that since this judgment has not been appealed, any results from the elections would be considered illegal.

In addition to this, Bichi referenced a recent ruling from another Federal High Court that disqualified all NNPP candidates from participating in the elections, further supporting the APC's position against the legitimacy of the electoral process.

He urged party members to remain calm and await the outcomes of ongoing legal actions challenging the election's conduct.

On the other hand, KANSIEC Chairman Prof. Sani Malumfashi has insisted that the commission is operating within legal parameters.

He stated that all preparations for the election are procedural and non-partisan, urging staff to avoid bribery and ensure compliance with electoral guidelines, particularly regarding underage voting. Malumfashi also reminded politicians that activities like vote-buying and violence violate state electoral laws.

Earlier on Friday, a Kano State High Court affirmed KANSIEC's authority to conduct the local government polls, reinforcing that all necessary arrangements were in place for the elections to proceed as scheduled.