A coalition of domestic and international election observers has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and stakeholders for the peaceful conduct of the Shanono/Bagwai State Constituency bye-election held on August 16.
Zubair Ladan, Convener of the Coalition and Project Coordinator of Society Rights Project, said the election was generally free, fair, and credible.
He noted that their teams observed polling units, collation centres, and strategic locations, finding substantial compliance with electoral guidelines.
“Electoral materials arrived on time, and accreditation, voting, counting, and collation were transparent. Security agencies acted neutrally, allowing voters to exercise their franchise without intimidation,” Ladan said.
He added that voter turnout was impressive despite it being a bye-election, with counting conducted in the presence of party agents, observers, and voters.
The coalition congratulated the winning party and candidate, describing the results as a reflection of the popular mandate. Ladan urged aggrieved parties to channel complaints through the courts.
The coalition includes Women Fest for Better Life Living Initiatives; Center for Grassroot Development and Crime Prevention; Organization of Justice for Equity Sustenance; Advocacy for Advancement of Peace and Harmony in Africa Initiative; Likeminds Support for Good Governance in Africa; Society for the Protection of Human Rights; and Society Rights Project.