On Wednesday, the Kaduna State Assembly refuted allegations made by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) regarding plans to manipulate the outcome of the upcoming Local Government elections scheduled for October 19. The allegations stemmed from a press briefing where the PDP claimed that a meeting was held between Speaker Dahiru Liman and several top government officials to strategize on manipulating the election results.
Response from the Assembly
During a news briefing in Kaduna, Henry Marah, the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, addressed the claims, stating there was no validity to the accusations. He clarified that the Speaker was on an official visit related to his constituency duties and emphasized that such visits are essential for ensuring that constituents benefit from the Assembly’s work.
“Our speaker has a constituency like all of us here; we visit offices for things for our constituents. If you sit down here at the assembly complex sometimes, nothing will move,” Marah explained. He noted that the Assembly members frequently engage in oversight activities, asserting that being seen with government officials does not imply any compromise of their positions.
Clarification on Legislative Actions
Marah further addressed allegations regarding plans to amend the State Independent Electoral Commission Law (SIECOM). He stated there were no relevant amendments scheduled for discussion, clarifying that the previous amendment, made in July, was necessary to transition from electronic to manual voting due to the short notice for the elections and the need to create additional polling units. This amendment also allowed KADSIECOM the authority to announce election results from designated locations if security concerns arose.
Marah, who is also a member of the PDP representing Jaba Constituency, mentioned that his faction would discuss the issue with the party. He suggested that the press briefing could have been avoided had the PDP consulted with them beforehand.
Commitment to Free and Fair Elections
Emphasizing the importance of a peaceful electoral process, Marah affirmed that Governor Uba Sani is committed to fostering mutual coexistence among the people of Kaduna State. He urged the public, especially politicians involved in the local elections, to disregard the allegations and focus on their campaigns, reinforcing that the elections would be conducted fairly.
“We will protect the interest of our people and make sure that the people of Kaduna State get the best,” he added.
Allegations from the PDP
The PDP had previously raised concerns that certain state officials were plotting to hijack the appointments of Ward and Local Government Returning/Collation Officers for the elections. Edward Masha, the Chairman of PDP in Kaduna State, claimed that some high-ranking officials were likely to engage in manipulative tactics to influence the electoral process.
As the October 19 Local Government elections approach, both the Kaduna State Assembly and the PDP continue to navigate the allegations and public sentiment surrounding the electoral process.