The election observers under the platforms of Concern Initiatives for Community and Social Development (CISCD) says the just concluded Bagwai/Shanono and Ghari/Tsanyawa by-election has meet democratic standards and reflected the will of the people.
Alhaji Tijjani Abdullahi Jos, the chairman of the group who was duely accredited by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) disclosed this in a statement sent to GLOBAL TRACKER.
The statement reads “Concern Initiatives for Community and Social Development (CICD), a non-governmental organization dedicated to democratic integrity and civic engagement, proudly announces the successful completion of its independent observation mission during the Bagwai/Shanono and Ghari/Tsanyawa State House of Assembly By-Election held on August 16, 2025.
Our observers were accredited by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and deployed across all the affected wards in each constituency. The election was necessitated by the demise of Hon. Halilu Ibrahim Kundila and the annulment of the Ghari/Tsanyawa constituency election by the Kano State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal.
Key Observations
– Peaceful Conduct: The election was conducted peacefully across all polling units, with no major incidents reported.
– Massive Voter Turnout: Citizens demonstrated commendable civic responsibility with high voter participation.
– INEC Preparedness: Polling materials were deployed timely, and officials adhered strictly to INEC guidelines.
– Security Presence: Security agencies acted professionally and swiftly neutralized a minor disruption attempt by political thugs on the eve of the election.
– Transparency: Counting and collation of results were conducted openly in the presence of party agents and observers.
Findings
Our analysis confirms that the election met democratic standards and reflected the will of the people. The professionalism of INEC officials, the proactive role of security agencies, and the peaceful engagement of political stakeholders contributed to the credibility of the process.
Recommendations
To further strengthen future electoral exercises, CICD recommends:
– INEC: Sustain timely logistics and continuous training of officials.
– Security Agencies: Maintain neutrality and proactive deployment.
– Political Stakeholders: Uphold peaceful conduct and discourage electoral violence.
– Civil Society: Intensify voter education to promote civic participation.
Conclusion
The Bagwai/Shanono and Ghari/Tsanyawa By-Election stands as a testament to democratic resilience in Kano State. CICD commends INEC, security agencies, political parties, and the electorate for their roles in ensuring a peaceful and credible process. We remain committed to promoting transparent, inclusive, and participatory democracy in Nigeria.