The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State has categorically refuted claims suggesting that its members have been instructed to withdraw from participating in the council elections taking place today across all 23 local government areas in the state. This clarification comes in response to growing concerns and rumors regarding the party's position on the elections.
During a press conference held on Saturday in Kafanchan, the administrative center of Jema’a Local Government Area, the state chairman, Edward Masha, emphatically stated that his office neither initiated nor endorsed any call for a boycott of the elections. His remarks were aimed at dispelling misinformation and reassuring party members and supporters of the PDP's commitment to participating in the electoral process.
Masha highlighted some concerning issues regarding the electoral preparations, stating, “While PDP agents at the SIECOM office in Kaduna were inspecting sensitive materials before distribution, it was noticed that one of the most sensitive materials, the result sheets, was not included, which was an anomaly.” This revelation raises questions about the integrity of the election materials and the overall electoral process in the state.
Furthermore, he disclosed that just two weeks prior to the elections, he had warned party members and the public about an alleged scheme by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to manipulate the elections. According to Masha, the APC was attempting to insert a provision into the SIECOM election rules that would alter how election outcomes are declared, potentially undermining the fairness of the elections.
Masha made it clear that the PDP would not relent in its efforts to ensure that all crucial documents are included in the electoral process to guarantee fairness and transparency. He described the blatant electoral misconduct attributed to the ruling party as a serious threat to democracy in Kaduna State, underscoring the importance of vigilance during the electoral process.
In his closing remarks, Masha urged all PDP members to unite and demonstrate strong support by casting their votes. He emphasized the necessity of preventing any actions that could disrupt peace in the various local government areas across the state during this crucial electoral period.