By Hosea Parah, Abuja

With the local government elections set for October 19th, the Ham Elders Forum has raised serious concerns about the ongoing imposition of chairpersons in the Jaba Local Government Area (LGA). This statement underscores the frustrations of the Ham community, which has faced eight years of denied democratic rights under former Governor Nasiru el-Rufai’s administration.

In a press release issued on Wednesday and signed by forum members Martins Boris Chiroma, Mamman D. Sarki, Istifanus Zom, Iliya Bako Byeing, and Peter N. Buba, the elders stressed the necessity of a government that genuinely reflects the will of the people. They referenced Abraham Lincoln’s famous assertion that government should be “of the people, by the people, and for the people,” criticizing the absence of elected leadership in Jaba LG and highlighting the reliance on appointed chairpersons, which they believe undermines the democratic process.

The forum emphasized the critical importance of credible elections, asserting that the local populace must have the right to select their leaders based on qualifications and track records. “Enough is enough! We deserve to be given our constitutional rights, like other LGAs, to exercise our franchise and assert our powers as electorates,” they declared.

The elders appealed to Governor Uba Sani and relevant authorities to guarantee a transparent electoral process, advocating for a peaceful election environment where voters can freely select their candidates without external interference. Their key demands include:

1. Peaceful Elections: Ensure a safe and calm atmosphere in all voting units and wards.

2. Voter Freedom:Allow voters to select their preferred candidates without external influence.

3. Fair Vote Counting:Ensure that all votes are counted fairly, with results declared in compliance with electoral laws.

4. Immediate Results Declaration:Results should be counted at polling stations, with declarations made promptly by Returning Officers at designated locations.

5. Accountability:Any individuals involved in the wrongful declaration of results will face sanctions within the Ham community.

The forum expressed appreciation to the state government for moving forward with local elections in line with the Supreme Court’s judgment on local council autonomy. They believe these measures will contribute to the development and peace that the Jaba community has long sought.

As the election date approaches, the call for a democratic process resonates powerfully among the people of Ham community, who are eager to reclaim their rights and play an active role in shaping their local governance.