Three major opposition parties — the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC) — are missing from the ballot papers in the ongoing Kano State House of Assembly by-election in Kano State.

The development, first highlighted by Arise News, has generated debate over the transparency and competitiveness of the by-election. According to the report, nine political parties are listed on the ballot papers, excluding the PDP, NNPP, and ADC — all considered influential political forces in the state.

INEC Conducts Kano Assembly By-Election

The by-election is being organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to fill two vacant seats in the Kano State House of Assembly. The vacancies followed the deaths of the former lawmakers last year, who were members of the NNPP before their demise.

Observers say the absence of the three opposition parties could significantly shape the outcome of the polls, raising questions about voter choice and political representation in Kano.

Low Voter Turnout Across Kano Municipal

Beyond the ballot concerns, the by-election has recorded low voter turnout in several polling units across Kano Municipal Local Government Area.

Reports indicate that although INEC officials arrived early and arranged electoral materials on time, many polling units had only a handful of voters as of mid-morning. Electoral staff were seen seated and prepared, awaiting more constituents to cast their ballots.

Heavy Security Presence at Polling Units

Security agencies were strategically deployed to maintain order and ensure a peaceful voting process. Observers noted a strong security presence across affected areas, even as turnout remained sparse.

As voting continues, political stakeholders are closely monitoring INEC’s conduct of the Kano by-election and its broader implications for the state’s political landscape.