Presidency vs PDP Governors: Fresh Political Clash Erupts Over By-Elections

Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have accused the Federal Government of intimidation and anti-democratic practices during the August 9 by-elections held across the country.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The elections, conducted to fill vacant senatorial and House of Representatives seats following deaths and resignations, were fraught with allegations of vote-buying, violence, and low voter turnout.

At the close of the polls, the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged victorious in 12 constituencies, the PDP secured just one, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) won two, while the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) claimed one.

In a communiqué issued after its meeting in Gusau, Zamfara State, on Saturday, the PDP Governors’ Forum alleged that the exercise was heavily compromised through excessive deployment of security operatives and widespread irregularities.

“The Forum condemns the over-militarisation of last Saturday’s by-elections, which were marred by widespread irregularities, vote-buying, and violence. We call on Nigerians to remain vigilant in defending their votes,” the governors declared.

They also commended loyal party members who, according to them, endured “intimidation and undemocratic practices” allegedly orchestrated by the APC-led Federal Government.

The communiqué further stated: “We urge our members, supporters, and indeed all Nigerians, to remain steadfast in upholding the vision and principles of the PDP, despite the growing intimidation of the opposition. This situation reflects nothing but the desperation of a ruling party without vision or agenda, destined for rejection by the people.”

Presidency Reacts
The Presidency swiftly dismissed the PDP’s claims as unfounded.

Speaking to Sunday Punch, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, said the opposition was merely attempting to cover up its poor performance.

“What intimidation and anti-democratic actions are they talking about? They contested, they lost. Rather than admit failure, they are inventing excuses. This government has not acted undemocratically in any way,” Ajayi stated.

He added that opposition parties freely campaigned and participated in the polls, with security agencies ensuring their safety.

According to him, “It is in the interest of any ruling party to have a strong opposition. It strengthens democracy and keeps government accountable.”

Ajayi, however, described the PDP and its allies as “a coalition in total disarray,” stressing that President Tinubu’s administration remains focused on fixing the economy and would not be distracted by “baseless accusations and falsehoods.”