Election observers under the aegis of the Coalition of Rights Groups and Election Monitors have commended the conduct of the recent bye-elections in Kaduna State, describing the exercise as free, fair, and transparent.
The observers, who monitored the process across different local government areas, described the polls as a remarkable improvement in Nigeria’s democratic journey, citing transparency, voter participation, and peaceful conduct as key indicators of credibility.
In a joint statement issued in Kaduna, Amina Mohammed, spokesperson of the Civil Rights and Democracy Watch (CRDW), noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) performed satisfactorily by ensuring timely arrival of materials, adherence to guidelines, and prompt transmission of results.
It said Kaduna elections set a positive example in the North-West, adding that its observers reported minimal cases of irregularities, and those were not significant enough to affect the overall outcome, saying the people of Kaduna spoke clearly, and their votes counted.
Similarly, Mr. Peter Okafor, National Coordinator, Network of Election Observers (NEO), commended security agencies for maintaining order during the exercise, adding that they observed professionalism from security operatives across polling units. He said the presence of security agencies reassured voters and discouraged malpractice just as they congratulated Governor Uba Sani on his recent victory, urging him to carry all stakeholders along in delivering dividends of democracy.
They also called on opposition parties to respect the will of the people and join hands in building a peaceful and prosperous Kaduna State.
With this endorsement from both local and international monitors, Governor Uba Sani’s mandate has received additional legitimacy, reinforcing confidence in the democratic process.
