Tensions are running high in Kwara State following the local government elections, which saw the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerge victorious in all 16 local government areas. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vehemently contested the results, accusing the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC) of manipulating the outcome in favor of the APC.
At the forefront of the PDP’s protest is Hajia Saratu Adebayo, a former commissioner, who asserts that the PDP secured wins in all 16 local government areas, only to have the seats unjustly awarded to the APC. PDP supporters took to the streets, carrying placards that condemned KWASIEC’s alleged partiality.
“We demand justice and transparency,” Adebayo declared. “The people’s voices must be respected, and their votes counted accurately.”
Conversely, the APC has extended gratitude to the people of Kwara State for their peaceful participation in the elections and overwhelming support. Prince Sunday Fagbemi, APC chairman, praised KWASIEC for its professionalism and impartiality.
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“The people have spoken, and we are humbled by their trust in our party,” Fagbemi stated. “We commend KWASIEC for ensuring a smooth electoral process.”
Election Results Breakdown:
APC secured 181 councillorship seats.
PDP secured 8 councillorship seats.
APC won all 16 chairmanship seats.
The contentious election has exposed deep-seated divisions between the APC and PDP in Kwara State. As tensions escalate, concerns about electoral integrity and democratic principles come to the forefront.
Implications and Reactions:
The Kwara LG elections have sparked heated debates about Nigeria’s electoral system and the role of electoral commissions. Many are calling for reforms to ensure transparency and accountability.
