Breaking : NNPP Not on Ballot in Kano By-Polls
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO – As Kano residents goes to the polls on Saturday to elect two members of the State House of Assembly, voters were shocked that the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) was absent from the ballot.
Although, INEC officials were not readily available to offer explanations, however, sources told this newspaper that the party’s exclusion is reportedly linked to ongoing legal disputes within its leadership.
Despite the political tension surrounding NNPP’s absence, early reports from polling units across the two constituencies Kano (Municipal, and Ungogo), indicate a calm and peaceful atmosphere across the state.
Security officials and electoral personnel noted no major incidents, a stark contrast to past elections that were often marred by violence.
Consequently, voter turnout appeared low, with many polling stations recording minimal activity. Some residents cited the absence of the NNPP as a factor, while others said general apathy and a sense of political fatigue contributed to the reduced participation.
Salisu Yahaya Hotoro, Special Adviser to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Social Media, in a post on his verified Facebook account credit the tranquility to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s #KanoFirst agenda, which emphasizes peace, security, and community harmony.
Hotoro explained that the government’s proactive measures appear to have reassured residents, allowing them to participate without fear or intimidation. Following NNPP’S absence on the ballot, the exercise tilt the by-polls in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates, who are seen as strong contenders.
Effort to speak with Hashimu Dungurawa, a factional Chairman of the embattled party failed as calls to his known GSM line were not responded to.
However, interviews with voters showed mixed reactions. While some regretted the limited choice, many welcomed the peaceful environment, reflecting hope for safer electoral processes in the future.