The recent by-elections held across several states in Nigeria, including Ogun, Kaduna, and Kano, were marred by a combination of violence, vote-buying, and intimidation, casting doubts on the credibility of the electoral process in these regions.
In Ogun State, security operatives arrested prominent figures including two chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and two suspected Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials. The arrests came after large sums of cash were found, allegedly intended for vote-buying during the Remo Federal Constituency House of Representatives by-election. The apprehensions were made early in the morning at a hotel in Iperu-Remo, highlighting the ongoing challenges of curbing corrupt practices in elections.
Kaduna State also witnessed significant disruptions, including the arrest of a suspected vote buyer caught with nearly N26 million in cash intended to influence voters. Meanwhile, there were allegations of abduction and intimidation of political candidates and supporters. The PDP accused security forces of detaining its House of Representatives candidate for the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency and supporters ahead of the poll.
Kano State experienced widespread violence and election disruption, particularly in the Shanono/Bagwai and Ghari constituencies. Armed thugs forcibly disrupted voting activities, forcing many voters to flee polling units. In reaction to the chaos, the All Progressives Congress (APC) called on INEC to cancel the affected by-elections and re-run them at a later date, citing the compromised integrity of the electoral exercise.
These incidents not only dampened voter turnout but also exposed significant weaknesses in election security and voter protection. The persistent problems of vote-buying and election-related violence threaten the democratic process, undermining citizens’ trust in free and fair elections.
Both the APC and PDP have expressed concerns and demanded actions to safeguard the sanctity of Nigeria’s electoral process. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been urged to investigate thoroughly and take decisive measures to curb electoral malpractices and restore public confidence.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, these by-elections serve as a critical test of the country’s electoral systems and security apparatus. Stakeholders are calling for greater vigilance, stricter enforcement of electoral laws, and comprehensive reforms to ensure that the voice of every Nigerian voter is heard without undue coercion or manipulation.
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