Karim I By-Election: APC, PDP in Tight Race, INEC May Declare Poll Inconclusive
By Hilary John
Tension is rising in Karim I constituency as the collation of results in Saturday’s by-election draws to a close, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) locked in a neck-to-neck battle.
Preliminary figures from polling units across the constituency indicate that the contest is too close to call, with only a slim margin separating the two leading parties.
However, the credibility of the outcome hangs in the balance following the cancellation of over 3,000 votes due to irregularities in some polling units.
Observers stressed that the number of cancelled votes may exceed the margin of lead between the two parties, which could compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare the election inconclusive in line with electoral guidelines.
Residents, political stakeholders, and party supporters have gathered at collation centers and public places, anxiously awaiting INEC’s official declaration.
Speaking to reporters at the collation venue, a visibly concerned voter, Musa Ibrahim, said:
“We came out to vote because we want our votes to count. But now everyone is worried that the election may not be concluded today. We just hope INEC will be fair and transparent.”
The Karim I Constituency seat became vacant following the resignation of the former occupant, Dr Mike Dio after his appointment as a Commissioner by Governor Agbu Kefas.
The All Progressive Congress, APC and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP had mounted intense campaigns, making the constituency one of the most hotly contested battlegrounds in Taraba politics this year.
Dr. Mustapha Sa’ad, the INEC returning officer for Karim I By-Election
As the collation process enters its final stages, all eyes remain on INEC officials to determine whether a winner will be declared tonight or if the election will be rerun in some disputed areas.
