Nine Months Without Representation: Shanono/Bagwai Constituents Decry INEC’s Inaction
It has been nine months since the sudden passing of Hon. Halilu Ibrahim Kundila, the representative of Shanono/Bagwai Constituency in the Kano State House of Assembly.
His demise on April 7, 2024, created a vacuum in the constituency’s legislative representation—a void that remains unfilled to this day.
The Nigerian Constitution mandates the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a bye-election within 90 days of a legislator’s death. Yet, the residents of Shanono and Bagwai local governments are still waiting, their hopes fading with each passing day.
The prolonged delay has ignited frustration among constituents, civil society organizations, and political observers, with many questioning INEC’s commitment to its constitutional duties. Allegations of political interference and bureaucratic inefficiencies have only deepened the mistrust.
“Shanono/Bagwai has been left in limbo,” said Adamu Tsaure, a prominent youth activist. “Without a representative, who will advocate for our needs or push for developmental policies? INEC’s silence is deafening.”
The ripple effects of this neglect are evident. Infrastructure projects initiated by Hon. Kundila has been abandoned, while critical issues such as education, healthcare, and youth unemployment remain unresolved. For many, the absence of a representative has translated into stagnation and a loss of hope.
“This delay is more than procedural—it’s a blow to our democracy,” asserted Aminu Abdullahi, a Kano-based political analyst. “By failing to act, INEC is denying the people of Shanono and Bagwai their fundamental right to representation and accountability.”
Meanwhile, political parties are cautiously preparing for the bye-election, though the indefinite timeline has left candidates in a state of uncertainty. Without clarity from INEC, campaign strategies remain on hold, deepening the frustration of the political class.
For the people of Shanono and Bagwai, the wait continues—and so does their sense of alienation. “Hon. Kundila fought for us, and now we feel abandoned,” lamented Aisha Suleiman, a community leader. “We deserve better than this silence. Our voice in government must not be extinguished.”
As pressure mounts on INEC, the question remains: Will the commission rise to its constitutional obligation, or will Shanono/Bagwai’s cry for representation remain unanswered in the corridors of power?
