The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially declared the Zamfara State Assembly bye-election inconclusive, citing widespread irregularities, disruptions, and logistical challenges that marred the electoral process.
The bye-election, which was held to fill a vacant seat in the state assembly, took place across several polling units in Zamfara. Despite a largely peaceful start, reports of ballot box snatching, overvoting, and voter intimidation soon began to filter in, prompting INEC to suspend collation in certain areas.
INEC’s Returning Officer stated that the number of cancelled votes due to irregularities exceeded the margin of lead between the top two contenders. This made it constitutionally impossible to declare a clear winner at this stage of the process.
Voters and political stakeholders in Zamfara have expressed disappointment over the outcome, with many calling for increased security and better coordination during future elections. Some community members described the situation as a setback to democratic progress in the state.
Political analysts believe the inconclusive status will heighten political tension in Zamfara as rival parties gear up for a possible rerun. The ruling party and opposition have both accused each other of foul play, each claiming to have had the upper hand before the disruptions occurred.
INEC has assured the public that it will conduct a supplementary election in affected polling units to determine the final outcome. The Commission reiterated its commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and credible process.
Meanwhile, civil society organizations monitoring the election have urged INEC to address recurring logistical issues, such as late arrival of materials and poor voter verification systems, which they say contributed to the chaos.
Party agents from both sides were seen engaging in heated arguments during the collation process before the election was halted. Security personnel had to intervene to restore order at the collation center.
This is not the first time INEC has declared a bye-election inconclusive in Nigeria, but the frequency of such occurrences has raised questions about the integrity and preparedness of the electoral process.
INEC is expected to announce a new date for the supplementary election soon, as Zamfara residents remain eager for finality and proper representation in their state assembly.
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