Olakanmi Abdullateef
_Calls for Fresh Elections_
The Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ajikobi Central Ward, Com. Abubakar Yusuf Garba, has raised concerns about widespread irregularities in yesterday’s elections within the ward. In a press conference, Garba called for the cancellation of the results and demanded fresh elections, citing serious lapses in the conduct of the polls.
Garba highlighted key irregularities that undermined the credibility of the electoral process. According to him, out of the 69 polling units in Ajikobi Central Ward, only 36 had officials from the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC) present, leaving 33 units unattended. Additionally, he noted a significant shortfall in the number of ballot papers received—10,600 instead of the expected 37,000+, with many polling units receiving as few as 50 to 300 papers.
Further complicating the process, several KWASIEC officials were reportedly unprepared or absent on election day. “Many officials were unaware of their assignments, with some even located in other states,” Garba stated.
The PDP chairman claimed that the party has video evidence documenting these irregularities. He added that the community, alongside supporters of former Senate President Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, reacted strongly, calling for the elections to be stopped due to the clear inadequacies of KWASIEC.
Garba also accused the General Manager of Radio Kwara of interference, claiming the manager was seen escorting KWASIEC officials, an action he described as an attempt to compromise the electoral process.
In light of these issues, Garba demanded that fresh elections be conducted in Ajikobi Central Ward, stressing that the announced results were “fake” and represented an abuse of power by the KWASIEC Chairman. He assured that the party would take steps to ensure justice is served and the voices of the people are heard.
The PDP chairman concluded by thanking the party faithful, stakeholders, and Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki for their continued support and leadership during this challenging time.
As the PDP continues to challenge the results, all eyes are on the electoral body, KWASIEC, to address the accusations and take action to restore confidence in the electoral process.
