At least 3,517,000 eligible voters are expected to cast their ballots today as Katsina State holds its highly anticipated Local Government and Councilorship Elections across 34 LGAs, covering 361 political wards and 6,652 polling units.
Reports from polling stations indicate an early start, with voting commencing at 9:05 a.m. amid a massive turnout, especially among women, youth, and the elderly. Security personnel are on high alert to ensure a peaceful exercise.
Governor Dikko Radda, alongside his wife Zulaihat, Deputy Governor Faruk Jobe, former President Muhammadu Buhari, and ex-Governors Ibrahim Shema and Aminu Masari, all cast their votes at their respective polling units.
Addressing journalists after voting at his Kofar Katika Polling Unit in Charanchi LGA, Governor Radda expressed satisfaction with the turnout, describing it as a testament to the deepening of democracy in the state. He assured voters of a transparent process and expressed confidence in APC’s victory, citing the party’s numerous developmental projects since 2023.
“With the overwhelming turnout, I am encouraged that democracy in Katsina has matured. The process has been smooth, and voters can expect their ballots to be counted. Given our achievements, I strongly believe APC will emerge victorious,” Radda stated.
Despite the Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission (KTSIEC) guaranteeing a free and fair contest, only five political parties—APC, Accord Party, Booth Party, AAC, and ADC—are participating, with 86 others, including the PDP, opting out for undisclosed reasons.
KTSIEC Chairman Alhaji Lawal Alhassan Faskari confirmed that sensitive election materials had been successfully distributed across all 34 LGAs, prioritizing remote areas. Over 20,000 trained ad-hoc staff are deployed to ensure a smooth exercise.
Meanwhile, the Katsina State Police Command has enforced a movement restriction from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to maintain law and order. Commissioner of Police CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa assured residents of adequate security measures, urging them to participate peacefully.
The public has been advised to report any security concerns via the command’s emergency lines:
📞 08156977777, 09022209690, 07072722539
As voting progresses, all eyes are on the results, with Governor Radda and APC optimistic about victory.
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