By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbi
The Kebbi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced its withdrawal from the forthcoming Local Government Council elections slated for August 31st, 2024.
Addressing a press conference, the party’s chairman, Alhaji Bello Usman Suru, cited three reasons for the decision:
The State Independent Electoral Commission’s leadership, comprising card-carrying members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which raises concerns about the commission’s ability to conduct free, fair, and credible elections.
The introduction of administrative fees for candidates and political parties, which the PDP sees as a violation of freedom of choice and a means of disenfranchising candidates.
The sudden change in the deadline for payment of administrative fees from August 30th to August 7th, which the party views as an attempt to discourage opposition parties from participating.
The PDP chairman emphasized that participating in the elections would signify acceptance of an “illegality, fraudulent system, and stage-managed elections.” He appealed to party members to remain calm and focused, while the party continues to monitor developments and hopes for the Independent National Electoral Commission to take over the conduct and management of Local Government Council elections.
