Bauchi State opposition parties boycott local government elections

Five political parties have announced a boycott of the local government elections in Bauchi State, scheduled for Monday, August 17, 2026. The coalition, which includes the Social Democratic Party (SDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), People’s Redemption Party (PRP), African Action Congress (AAC), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), cited several grievances against the Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission (BASIEC).

Spokesman Dr. Ladan Salihu stated that the elections are being conducted under the state’s 2008 electoral law, which the coalition argues contradicts the national Electoral Act 2026, creating a “weak and legally vulnerable foundation.” The parties also condemned the excessive nomination and administrative fees imposed on candidates, noting that such charges appear designed to financially exhaust opposition groups despite the state government funding the electoral process.

Additional complaints include a compressed timetable that left insufficient time for candidate screening and dispute resolution, as well as a requirement that all forms be processed at the BASIEC headquarters, which imposes extra financial burdens. While the coalition demanded a postponement, BASIEC chairperson Hajiya Jummai Sadiq denied any wrongdoing and insisted the polls proceed.