Jaba Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State is urging for free, fair, and democratically accepted elections in the upcoming local government polls.
In a joint statement released by key representatives of senior citizens and development-minded individuals in the area, a call was made for electorates to have a genuine voice in choosing their leaders without external interference.
The statement, signed by Chief Peter N. Buba, Mr. Mamman D. Sarki, Mr. Martins D. Chiroma, Mr. Istifanus Zom, and Chief Iliya B. Bako, emphasized the importance of allowing local communities to independently select candidates who will drive development.
“The people are the real stakeholders in this process,” the statement reads, urging voters to reject candidates who do not prioritize the progress of the community.
The elders also decried the influence of individuals from outside the community or the diaspora who attempt to sway elections.
0 “We stand against individuals from outside the community who believe they are stakeholders simply because they can influence the selection of candidates from afar,” the statement continued.
In a bid to ensure transparency and accountability, the elders proposed the organization of town hall meetings. Such forums, they said, should be hosted by the Jaba Development Associations, in collaboration with the Ham Development Association (HAMDA), where political aspirants can present their platforms and engage with the community directly.
The group praised the people of Jaba LGA for their resilience and determination in standing up for fairness and equity during the recent congresses. The peaceful outcome of the event, they noted, was a reflection of the people’s ability to elect their desired officials, bringing calm to the region.
Furthermore, the elders extended their appreciation to the current Kaduna State government for its commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law. They also hailed the recent Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy, which they believe will bolster democracy and development in Jaba LGA.
However, concerns were raised about the current political climate in the region. The elders warned of potential unrest if the situation is not addressed properly before the forthcoming elections. They stressed the need for urgent action to prevent any future crisis, noting that stability and peace are essential for the continued progress of the local government.
