Nigeria’s governorship elections in Kogi, Bayelsa, and Imo states saw the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) secure victories amidst accusations of electoral fraud and violence.
While the APC retained Kogi, with Ahmed Usman Ododo winning, and Imo, where incumbent governor Hope Uzodinma was re-elected, Bayelsa State went to the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), with Douye Diri retaining his post.
The polls, marked by low turnout due to fears of violence, witnessed fatal shootings, including an incident involving soldiers in Kogi state.
The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) reported low turnout and denounced vote-buying.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (Inec) faced scrutiny, with criticism of delays and technical problems.
The electoral commission assured its commitment to “free, fair, and credible” elections.
Inec also reported the release of an employee kidnapped in Bayelsa, and a boat carrying election documents capsizing, affecting over 5,000 voters.
Nigeria, historically marked by electoral violence, continues to grapple with contested election results and challenges in the electoral process.