Sokoto opposition parties reject IPAC election, demand fresh poll over irregularities

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By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

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SOKOTO:- A coalition of political parties in Sokoto State has rejected the outcome of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) state election held on April 2, 2026, alleging widespread irregularities, violations of established guidelines, and a lack of transparency in the conduct of the exercise.

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In a communiqué issued on April 3 and jointly endorsed by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Labour Party (LP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and Young Progressives Party (YPP), the coalition strongly condemned the process, describing it as a breach of democratic principles guiding IPAC elections nationwide.

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The parties said their position followed a careful review of the election conducted at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Conference Hall in Sokoto.

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According to the communiqué, the coalition observed that the election was carried out “in flagrant disregard of constitutional provisions and operational guidelines governing IPAC elections across the federation.”

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The parties further alleged that credible aspirants were unjustly disqualified without due process, a development they said undermined fairness, transparency, and inclusiveness in the process.

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The communiqué also cited alleged manipulation and substitution of delegates, claiming that some duly accredited voters were unlawfully replaced or excluded from participating in the election.

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“The entire process lacked transparency and credibility, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy of the outcome,” the coalition stated.

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The parties argued that the conduct of the election fell far short of the democratic standards expected of a body established to foster inter-party cooperation and strengthen democratic values.

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Consequently, the coalition unanimously rejected the outcome of the election and called for its immediate cancellation.

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“We strongly condemn the conduct of the IPAC Sokoto State election held on April 2, 2026, and reject in its entirety the outcome of the exercise as it does not reflect the will of the participating political parties,” the communiqué said.

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The coalition also demanded the conduct of a fresh election that would be credible, transparent, and inclusive, in strict compliance with IPAC guidelines and electoral procedures.

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Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law, the coalition urged the national leadership of IPAC and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene to address the grievances raised and restore confidence in the electoral process in Sokoto State.

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The communiqué warned that failure to take corrective measures could compel the coalition to pursue further lawful and democratic actions to ensure justice and fairness.

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The statement was signed by Abubakar Yawale, Sokoto State Chairman of the Labour Party and an aspirant for the position of IPAC Secretary, on behalf of the coalition of political parties in the state.

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