By Correspondent in Minna.
As preparations heighten for the November 1, 2025 Local Government Council (LGC) election in Niger State, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has been urged to ensure fairness and a level playing field for all political parties in the contest.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairmanship Candidate for Mokwa Local Government Council, Hon. Gimba Alhaji Usman, made the call while speaking with newsmen in Mokwa on Friday.
Gimba commended Governor Bago for his efforts over the past two years to promote inclusiveness and unity among citizens irrespective of political, ethnic or religious affiliations.
He, however, expressed concern over speculations that only candidates of the ruling party APC might be favoured in the upcoming election, describing such reports as contrary to the governor’s earlier promises.
“Niger State is a miniature Nigeria that belongs to all law-abiding citizens and eligible voters.The governor should demonstrate fairness and allow the people to freely elect their preferred leaders at the local government level,”he said.
The candidate described Governor Bago as a humble and open-minded leader who has not restricted the participation of any political party, expressing optimism that the forthcoming poll would be free, fair, and credible.
“As the Chief Security Officer of the state, the governor has influence over political appointees and elected officials. He should,therefore, ensure neutrality and protect the interests of all contestants,” Gimba said.
The PDP candidate added that he had confidence in the governor’s commitment to democratic principles, noting that Bago understands the financial and emotional sacrifices made by candidates during campaigns.
“I believe the governor will not allow anyone to expend their hard-earned resources only to be denied a fair chance at the polls,” he said.
Reacting to rumours of bias, Gimba questioned why any governor would limit participation to members of his political party after spending public funds on the electoral process.
He further appealed to Governor Bago to prove himself as a true democrat by guaranteeing credible elections across all 25 local government areas of the state.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
