The Kaduna State by-election for the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency yesterday was marked by contrasting reports on voter turnout, despite assurances of security and early deployment of electoral materials by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
While many polling units across Chikun, Kajuru, Sabon Gari, and Zaria recorded a low number of voters, with some centres appearing deserted for much of the morning, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Joseph Bagudu, hailed what he described as a “massive turnout” in his stronghold.
Speaking after casting his ballot at Polling Unit 003, Ungwan Madaki, Kanla, in Kajuru LGA, Bagudu praised voters for coming out “peacefully and orderly,” linking the participation to confidence in the APC and the “sterling leadership” of Governor Uba Sani. He urged residents to remain law-abiding throughout the process.
However, findings by reporters painted a different picture in several locations, particularly in Chikun LGA, where polling centres such as Yelwa Polling Unit 001 at the Television Garage saw only a trickle of voters. Commercial and vehicular activities continued unhindered, despite the restriction of movement order announced by the police ahead of the polls.
Some voters attributed the apathy to insecurity and poor awareness. “People are hungry and have decided to stay indoors for fear of attacks. There was also not enough media awareness of the by-election,” said Sarah Musa, a voter at Television Garage.
An INEC ad-hoc official also expressed disappointment at the low turnout. “We came on time for the vote to commence, but you can see for yourself that the voters are not here as expected,” the official told newsmen.
Nevertheless, the lawmaker representing Igabi Federal Constituency, Hussaini Mohammed Jalo, who monitored the election in parts of Chikun, expressed optimism that participation would improve as the day progressed.
“Voters are coming out, but not as expected. However, we believe that in the next one or two hours, the turnout will improve. So far, so good”, he told journalists at LEA Primary School, Narayi.
Jalo, who gave INEC a pass mark for its conduct of the exercise but urged improvements in the condition of voting cubicles, commended the security agencies for ensuring a calm atmosphere. “The security situation is perfect. I’ve been here since yesterday night, and everywhere is calm. Security agents are doing very well”, he stated.
Despite such assurances, many residents remained sceptical, citing Kaduna’s history of banditry and communal clashes. A community leader in Kajuru, who preferred anonymity, remarked: “The government may say security is fine, but ordinary people know the reality in their communities. Many would rather stay at home than risk going out to vote”.
The Chikun/Kajuru seat became vacant following the death of Labour Party lawmaker Ekene Adams in July 2024. Saturday’s exercise, conducted under heavy security presence, was part of several by-elections held by INEC to fill declared vacancies across the state.
