Kano Housing Minister Demands Cancellation of Bagwai/Shanono By-Election Over Violence

The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi-Ata, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the Bagwai/Shanono State Assembly by-election, alleging widespread violence and irregularities.

Speaking to journalists in Kano on Sunday, Abdullahi-Ata claimed that the exercise, held on Saturday, was marred by the activities of armed thugs allegedly mobilised from within and outside the state to disrupt the process.

According to him, the thugs stormed Bagwai and Shanono local government areas as early as 5 a.m. on election day, wielding dangerous weapons and forcing residents out of their homes and polling units.

He alleged that the residence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the constituency was also attacked. Despite early warnings and reports to security agencies, Abdullahi-Ata said the violence continued unchecked.

“The people of Bagwai/Shanono, who have been eagerly awaiting this by-election since the death of their representative, Hon. Halilu Ibrahim-Kundila, in April 2024, were denied the opportunity to exercise their democratic right,” the minister stated.

He urged INEC to cancel the poll and ensure a credible rerun, stressing that democracy must not be undermined by violence and intimidation.