By Samson Elijah, Abuja and KABIR WURMA, Birnin Kebbi
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi State has condemned recent claims by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) regarding the 2024 local government elections, describing them as false and baseless.
This comes as the Kebbi State Independent Electoral Commission (KBSIEC) declared APC candidates as winners in the Saturday’s elections.
While announcing the results on Sunday Chairman of the Commission, Hon Aliyu Muhammed Mera said those who won included those who contested for Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and Councillors.
However, in a statement reacting to PDP’s claim on polls, the public relations officer (PRO) of APC, Isah Abubakar Assalafi, said the elections were conducted peacefully across all 21 local government areas of the state.
He reported a high voter turnout and noted that security was significantly heightened across the state, with personnel deployed at polling units, collation centres, and the offices of the Kebbi State Independent Electoral Commission (KESIEC).
He also highlighted the presence of election observers and KESIEC officials at polling stations and collation centres, which ensured the transparency and accountability of the electoral process.
Assalafi praised the peaceful conduct of voters, who participated in the elections without any intimidation.
He underscored the APC’s commitment to democracy and good governance, citing the party’s achievements in infrastructure, security and the creation of opportunities for citizens.
Assalafi said the party is committed to uplifting citizens at the grassroots level, adding that it will extend the tenure of local government council members from two to three years and revamp the Local Government Service Commission.
He expressed disappointment with the PDP’s decision to boycott the elections and criticised the party for allegedly spreading false information through its press statements.
He argued that, having boycotted the elections, the PDP lacks the legal standing (locus standi) to seek any remedy or make complaints about the electoral process.
Condemning PDP’s call for boycott of the elections, APC said it was a violation of the Constitution and an attempt to disenfranchise eligible voters.
The party urged the PDP to engage in constructive dialogue and contribute to the development of Kebbi State, rather than resorting to baseless accusations and divisive rhetoric.
The APC called on the PDP to prioritise presenting facts to back its claims rather than self-serving narratives.
The party reiterated the administration’s commitment to peace and prosperity under the leadership of Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu, who appointed competent officials to KESIEC following thorough screening and confirmation by the State Assembly.