Violence, Controversy Mar By-elections in 12 States

Violence and controversy marred the by-elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 16 constituencies across 12 states in Nigeria. The exercise was characterized by violence, with the arrest of a leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and an INEC official, as well as the alleged intimidation and disenfranchisement of opposition parties.

The PDP called for the immediate cancellation of the Ghari constituency in Kano State, citing irregularities. In Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo expressed concern over the slow performance of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System.

The ruling Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Anambra State accused vote-buying during the elections. Security operatives arrested PDP officials and INEC staff in Ogun State with a large sum of money, sparking allegations of electoral malpractice.

The APC called for the cancellation of the elections in Kano State due to widespread violence. The PDP in.