In a statement issued in Lokoja on Friday, October 16, ADC State Chairman, Hon. Tom Zakari, claimed that the party had received information suggesting that ballot boxes might not be distributed to some polling units or could be restricted to selected locations during the October 17 elections.

Zakari also alleged that there were plans to prevent the announcement of results at polling units and ward collation centres. According to him, such actions could create opportunities for sensitive electoral materials to be diverted and results manipulated in favour of the ruling party.

The ADC chairman warned against any attempt to undermine the credibility of the elections, saying the party would not accept electoral practices that could give any political party an unfair advantage.

He called on the APC leadership in Kogi State to ensure that the electoral process was not compromised and urged all parties to respect democratic principles and the rights of voters.

Despite the concerns raised, the ADC urged its members, candidates and supporters across the state's 21 local government areas to participate in the election and exercise their voting rights peacefully.

The opposition party also called on the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) to honour its stated commitment to conducting free, fair, credible and transparent elections. The party warned that any failure to meet those expectations would attract strong objections from its leadership and supporters.

The elections are scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 17, across Kogi State's 21 local government areas, covering 239 electoral wards and 3,508 polling units.

KOSIEC has publicly stated that preparations are underway for peaceful and credible polls, while urging political parties, candidates, security agencies and other stakeholders to cooperate with the commission.

As the state approaches election day, the allegations raised by the ADC have not been independently established. The APC's response to the specific claims was not available in the reports reviewed. The credibility of the process will depend on the conduct of electoral officials, the handling of voting materials, transparent result procedures and the ability of voters to participate without intimidation.

Reporting by TalkNaija Media