News Investigators/ Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru-Bago, has expressed satisfaction with the impressive turnout of voters during Saturday’s local government council elections in the state.
Mr Bago stated this in an interview shortly after casting his vote at the Tswashagi Rabba Polling Unit 010, Landzun Ward, Bida Local Government Area.
He described the turnout, especially in his ward, as unprecedented, saying it reflected the people’s confidence in the democratic process.
“This is an experience that shows the acceptance of democracy in Nigeria.
“The way people came out here is unprecedented; even at the general elections, we didn’t have this number. It means the populace trusts the system,” he said.
The governor commended President Bola Tinubu for maintaining that sub-national governments conduct their local government elections, describing it as a strengthening measure for grassroots democracy.
Mr Bago urged voters to remain orderly and patient as they awaited the official announcement of results, while wishing all candidates success.
The governor also commended the large turnout of women across polling units, describing it as encouraging and a clear demonstration of their support for women-friendly policies.
He said the participation of women underscored the positive impact of the programmes championed by the First Lady of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, and his wife, Hajiya Fatima Umaru-Bago.
“The turnout of women gives me more confidence to continue supporting initiatives that will empower and improve their lives,” he added.
Mr Bago reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to democratic principles and commended security agencies for maintaining peace and order throughout the exercise.
He acknowledged minor challenges in some areas but said election materials were promptly redeployed to ensure a smooth process.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s determination to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of the state
Also speaking after casting their votes at the Ma’aji Hassan Polling Unit, Bida, the member representing Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency, Rep. Saidu Mohammed Abdullahi, and the Chairman, New Niger Development Projects, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar-Bida, described the exercise as credible.
They said the election reflected the people’s support for the developmental strides of the Bago administration.
Similarly, the APC chairmanship candidate for Bida Local Government Area, Usman Manko lauded the process and expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious.
It would be recalled that the governor’s wife, Hajiya Fatima Bago, also voted at the Tswashagirabba Polling Unit, Landzun Ward, Bida.
NAN
