KAD-SIECOM Chairman Assures Fair Election, Warns Against Violence Ahead of October 19 Poll

The Chairman of the Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission (KAD-SIECOM), Hajiya Hajara Mohammed, has assured that the commission has no intention of rigging the upcoming local council elections scheduled for October 19, 2024.

Mohammed issued a stern warning to politicians to refrain from violence and hate speech throughout the election period, urging all parties to ensure peaceful conduct.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ engagement and sensitization meeting on Saturday, she called on political parties to support the election officials deployed to their constituencies to ensure a free, fair, and credible election process.

“There is no plan to rig the election; that is why we have been working tirelessly to ensure a level playing field for all candidates,” Mohammed said. “Our plea to the voting public is for their full cooperation.”

She further advised political parties to accept election outcomes in good faith, reminding them that “there will always be another election.”

Tensions rose during the meeting following a controversial statement by Barrister Mahmud Lawal Ismail, Chairman of the House Committee on Education at the State Assembly.

Ismail claimed that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would win all 23 local government chairmanship and councilorship seats.

The comment sparked protests from opposition party leaders, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

PDP State Chairman Edward Marshal, speaking outside the meeting hall, condemned Ismail’s remarks as undemocratic.

“We call on all lovers of democracy to reject such comments. No single person or party is greater than Nigerians,” Marshal stated.

He reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to truth and justice, expressing optimism about the party’s chances despite concerns over the commission’s handling of electoral procedures.