The recent bye-elections in the Ungogo and Kano Municipal constituencies of Kano State have been marked by a notable political event: the transfer of legislative power from deceased fathers to their sons. This development highlights not only an emotional transition but also raises questions about the broader political landscape, particularly the marked decline in voter engagement. In the context of Nigeria's evolving democracy, such transitions can lead to a sense of continuity in political families but also risk perpetuating elitist practices over broader democratic participation.

In these elections, candidates from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Aliyu Nabil Daneji and Aminu Sa'ad Sa'ad, won their respective seats in Kano Municipal and Ungogo. However, a critical takeaway from this electoral event is the stark contrast in voter turnout compared to the 2023 general elections. The number of votes cast in these bye-elections was significantly lower, indicating a growing detachment among the electorate. This decline in civic engagement is particularly concerning as it foreshadows troubling repercussions for the upcoming 2027 general elections.

The declining voter turnout in Kano State’s bye-elections poses critical questions about public confidence in the electoral process and citizens' overall engagement with democracy. The emotional significance of transferring seats from deceased lawmakers to their sons serves to mask the more significant issue of political apathy. This trend could potentially affect election outcomes in 2027, as a disengaged electorate may influence the electorate’s choices, risking their voices and concerns being overlooked in the political arena.