The Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya has pledged his administration’s readiness to provide a level ground during Saturday, December 19th Local Government election.
Speaking in a statewide broadcast, Governor Yahaya said the Electoral Commission had been given all necessary support to conduct a free and fair election.
He assured all stakeholders that the election would reflect the will of the people, but warned trouble makers to desist from acts that could endanger lives and property of the people.
“Our administration has zero tolerance for violence or election related crimes,” the Governor stated.
Governor Yahaya said; ”My administration will deal with any trouble maker no matter how highly placed.”
He declared Friday, December 18 a public holiday in preparation for Saturday’s election.
Governor Yahaya said the declaration of Friday as a public holiday was to enable people travel to their various local government areas for the election.
Restrictions of movement
”There would be restrictions of movement on all non essential services on election day, to ensure safety and security of lives and property,” the Governor stressed.
According to him, the regulations are for the collective good of everyone, while urging the public to comply with the directives.
He said his administration was concerned about grassroots activities because it was the closest to the people.
“The local government as the closest government to the grassroots deserves the highest priority, therefore the decision on who governs and how they should be governed is a matter of great priority,” Governor Yahaya said.
He expressed hope that the election would usher in competent and trustworthy administrators, who would help manage the affairs of the local government areas and the state in general.
Governor Yahaya urged ”all political parties to play the game according to the laid down rules, because no political ambition is worth the blood of any Gombe citizen.”
He further charged them to respect and accept “the will of the people.”
While urging the public to come out and vote, Yahaya appealed to everyone to comply with Covid-19 protocols and remain peaceful while exercising their franchise.
He also urged security personnel to maintain peace to enable the people exercise their electoral rights while and advised the traditional rulers to help maintain peace in their domains.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
