SDP, APC cry foul over local government polls

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State have raised concerns over the forthcoming local government council elections, citing irregularities and lack of fairness in the process.

The SDP’s 2023 governorship candidate, Dr. Umar Ardo advised his party to boycott the polls, alleging that the state Independent Electoral Commission (ADSIEC) had compromised the election.

Ardo claimed that ADSIEC failed to provide the voter register and other essential materials, and that the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is attempting to manipulate the process.

Meanwhile, the APC, which initially intended to participate in the elections, has made a U-turn, citing “gross irregularities” and “blatant circumvention of the electoral process.”

The party’s state secretary, Dr. Raymond Chidama, announced that the APC will not participate in the polls, citing the composition of ADSIEC, which he claimed is made up of PDP members.

Both parties are calling for a free, fair, and credible election, and are urging the electoral commission to address their concerns.

The development comes as the state prepares for the July 13 local government polls, with the PDP already selling nomination forms and releasing a timetable for the elections.

The ADSIEC is yet to respond to the allegations, but the commission’s chairman, Muhammad Jabu, had earlier pledged to ensure a free, fair, and credible election.”