Supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State have vandalized the party’s secretariat in a violent protest against the alleged imposition of candidates for the upcoming local government elections scheduled for November 1.
The demonstration, which began as a peaceful protest on Tuesday, escalated as aggrieved party members pulled down APC and Nigerian flags, damaged party property, and chanted slogans rejecting the selection process.
Amid the chaos, Agwara LGA Chairman Iliyasu Zakari reportedly escaped unharmed as protesters expressed strong opposition to his second-term bid.
The discontent stems from Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s consensus candidate selection process, which required LGAs to submit three nominees, with the final choice resting with him. However, the process has been widely criticized, with allegations of manipulation.
Yakubu Kuta, a former vice-chairman of Shiroro LGA, accused Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba of interfering in the process and imposing his aide as the candidate. In response, the deputy governor’s press secretary, Ummulkhatumi Abdullahi Kuta, denied the allegations, stating that the candidate emerged through a democratic voting process.
The unrest highlights growing tensions within the APC ranks as the state prepares for the crucial local government elections.
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