The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kano State, Ambassador Abdu Zango, has attributed the low voter turnout recorded during the Ungogo and Kano Municipal bye-elections to the timing of the polls and limited participation by political parties.

Speaking to journalists on Saturday while monitoring the exercise, Zango said the elections were generally peaceful but witnessed low participation in several polling units.

“First of all, I think the timing, maybe Ramadan. Second, I think the general feeling that this is a very small election involving only two candidates and very few parties. Nine contestants, I think,” he said.

The REC noted that despite the turnout, the process was conducted in a calm atmosphere, with no reported cases of violence or security breaches.

“As far as security is concerned, you can see for yourselves, no issue. It’s very unlike Kano. We really want to appreciate and commend citizens that they have behaved responsibly. No violence. No threat whatsoever, visible or even invisible. So we are very happy,” he stated.

Zango also responded to questions on the absence of some major opposition parties in the bye-elections, saying INEC had not received any formal complaints from them.

“We have not received any accusation or anything. That they are not participating is entirely the responsibility of the parties. We don’t decide who participates,” he said.

According to him, political parties that conduct valid primaries, submit candidates and comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines are eligible to contest.

“So that decision is for the parties. I think it is the parties that will answer that question for you,” he added.

The bye-elections were held to fill vacant seats in Ungogo and Kano Municipal constituencies in the state. (Daily Trust)