The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has attributed the low voter turnout recorded during the Kano bye-elections to the ongoing Ramadan fasting period and limited competitiveness in the contest.
Speaking with journalists in Kano Municipal Local Government Area, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Abdu Zango, said the timing of the election during Ramadan significantly affected participation.
“First of all, I think the timing. Maybe Ramadan. Second, I think the general feeling is that this is a very small election involving only two candidates. Very few parties. Nine contestants, I think,” he said.
Zango explained that beyond the fasting period, public perception that the election was not highly competitive also contributed to voter apathy.
Despite the low turnout, he described the bye-election as one of the most peaceful in the state in recent times.
“As far as security is concerned, you can see for yourselves, no issue. It’s very unlike Kano. And we really want to appreciate and commend citizens that they have behaved responsibly. No violence. No threat whatsoever. Visible or even invisible. So we are very happy,” he stated.
On the boycott by some opposition parties, the REC said the commission had not received any formal complaints regarding the conduct of the election.
“We have not received any accusation or anything. That they are not participating is entirely the responsibility of the parties. We don’t decide who participates. Whoever does primary, sends his candidate, uploads it, and satisfies all the necessary guidelines as contained in the Electoral Act, is a candidate,” Zango explained.
He maintained that the decision to participate or withdraw from the election rested solely with the political parties.
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
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