Opposition Boycott Impugns Integrity of Borno LG Elections As Residents Vote
Residents of Borno State went to the polls on Saturday to elect chairmen and councillors across the 27 local government areas, but the exercise took place amid notable absences on the ballot following the withdrawal of two opposition parties.
Despite the boycott, voting proceeded in most areas under heavy security presence and with election officials insisting that the process remained lawful and orderly.
From Maiduguri to several semi-urban councils, polling units opened early, with electoral officers setting up materials before the arrival of voters.
Turnout varied across locations, with some centres recording steady participation while others witnessed sparse queues.
Many voters said they were determined to perform their civic duty regardless of the political tensions surrounding the election.
The decision of the opposition parties to stay away from the polls followed weeks of disagreement with the state electoral commission. Party officials had accused the commission of imposing what they described as prohibitive nomination fees and failing to create conditions for a transparent and inclusive contest.
According to them, the cost of participation placed smaller parties at a disadvantage and discouraged competitive democracy at the grassroots level.
In response, the Borno State Independent Electoral Commission rejected claims of bias, maintaining that its guidelines were consistent with existing laws governing local council elections. Officials argued that preparations for the polls were concluded in good time and that all registered parties were given equal opportunity to participate.
The commission also stressed that the withdrawal of any party was a voluntary decision and not the result of exclusion.
At several polling units, voters expressed concern that the absence of major opposition parties limited their choices. Some residents said they would have preferred a more competitive election that reflected diverse political options, while others believed the process should move forward regardless of political disagreements among party leaders.
Security agencies deployed personnel around polling centres, markets, and major roads to ensure a peaceful exercise, particularly in a state that has faced prolonged security challenges.
No major incidents were reported during the voting period, and officials described the atmosphere as largely calm.
Political observers note that the boycott may have implications for the perceived legitimacy of the elected council officials and could deepen debates about electoral reforms at the local level. Analysts argue that sustained dialogue between political parties, electoral bodies, and civil society groups will be crucial to restoring confidence in future grassroots elections.
As collation of results continues, attention is expected to shift toward post-election reactions and whether the concerns raised by the boycotting parties will prompt broader discussions on improving inclusiveness and participation in local governance across the state.
