The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that 10 political parties will participate in the forthcoming Kano State House of Assembly by-elections scheduled for February 21.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ engagement in Kano, the Kano State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Ambassador Abdu Zango, said the commission had so far received nominations from 10 registered political parties ahead of the polls in Kano Municipal and Ungogo local government areas.

According to him, the participating parties include the All Progressives Congress (APC), Action Democratic Party (ADP), African Action Congress (AAC), People’s Redemption Party (PRP), Dennis Labour Party, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Good Party, Action Alliance (AA), Labour Party (LP) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

The REC explained that while nominations have been submitted at the state level, the uploading of candidates’ details is being handled by the national headquarters of the respective parties through INEC’s online portal.

“As of the deadline, we have received nominations from 10 political parties. The uploading process is still ongoing, and the final number of candidates will only be confirmed by INEC headquarters once the process is completed,” he said.

He added that INEC had deployed monitors from its national headquarters to supervise party primaries across the affected constituencies, noting that no adverse reports had been received so far.

“Our monitors, supported by state officials who understand the local terrain, observed the primaries conducted by the parties. As at now, there are no reports of irregularities submitted to us,” the REC stated.

Addressing concerns surrounding internal disputes within some parties, particularly the NNPP, the REC said INEC had not received any court order or official communication affecting the recognition of party executives or the conduct of primaries.

“We are not aware of any court injunction. INEC’s responsibility is guided strictly by the law and reports from duly monitored primaries,” he said.

The REC also assured voters that INEC’s preparations for the by-elections were at an advanced stage, stressing the commission’s readiness to conduct free, fair and credible polls.

He disclosed that the by-elections will hold in two state constituencies covering Kano Municipal and Ungogo LGAs, with over 535,000 registered voters and more than 1,000 polling units.

INEC urged eligible voters in the affected areas to come out en masse to exercise their franchise, assuring them that adequate personnel and logistics have been deployed to ensure a smooth electoral process.

(Daily Trust)