Bye-Election: Group Accuses Gov Lawal of Assault on Democracy
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the Coalition of Zamfara Patriots (CZP) has accused Governor Dauda Lawal of orchestrating a “tyrannical assault” on democracy during the Kaura-Namoda South Constituency bye-election, declared inconclusive by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a statement, the group condemned Lawal’s alleged use of state-backed vigilantes and hired thugs to intimidate voters, describing it as a desperate attempt to cling to power.
The poll, held on 16 August 2025 following the death of Hon Aminu Ibrahim Kasuwar Daji, saw APC candidate Hon Kamilu Sa’idu Kasuwar Daji lead with 7,001 votes against PDP’s 5,339. INEC, however, declared it inconclusive due to irregularities in five polling units in Sakajiki and Kyambarawa wards. A supplementary election is set for 21 August.
The CZP hailed the result as a referendum against Lawal’s “catastrophic tenure” marked by corruption, political vindictiveness, and underdevelopment. It accused the governor of treating Zamfara as a “personal fiefdom” through acts such as the suspension of assembly members and interference with the judiciary.
The coalition urged INEC to declare the APC candidate winner, warning that attempts to manipulate the supplementary poll could destabilise the state.
“The people of Kaura-Namoda South have rejected his oppressive rule, and he must accept defeat with dignity,” the statement signed by Comrade Yusuf Dayda read.
The CZP called on security agencies, civil society, and the international community to monitor the poll, stressing that any attempt to subvert the electorate’s will would be met with “resolute resistance.”
