Some community leaders in the Bwari Area Council of the FCT have listed grassroots development, commitment to basic services and accountability, among others, as topmost priorities for the next dispensation.

The community leaders made the demands from candidates for the February 21 elections in separate interviews with journalists on Thursday in Bwari, Abuja.

They described the forthcoming elections as an opportunity for candidates to showcase new ideas, genuine innovation and sustainable development plans across the wards and communities of the district.

They also stated that campaign promises must be realistic and not mere talk and that candidates must be able to deliver on the promises irrespective of political party affiliations or positions.

One of the leaders, Japhet David, popularly known as Dugbadna-Bwari, opined that candidates must demonstrate clear vision for local development, modern approaches to challenges and inclusive governance.

Mr David said, “They (candidates) should articulate practical plans that address real community needs, such as infrastructure, health, education and security, especially improvements that can be felt directly at the ward level.

“Our communities deserve leaders who think beyond old methods. Therefore, candidates should propose smart and efficient solutions, including the use of technology for service delivery, engagement and transparency.”

According to him, candidates for the various electoral offices are expected to show commitment to listening to all groups, including youths, women, elders, artisans, farmers, business owners and the vulnerable.

“This is to ensure that development benefits everyone rather than a select few,” he said.

Mr David further said that candidates’ campaign promises must include realistic and measurable intentions on transparency and accountability of public funds and resources.

He said that candidates must showcase plans to improve on economic empowerment and job creation, water supply, sanitation, roads, schools, markets, security and social harmony.

The community leader also said that the candidates’ commitment must also go beyond election periods, insisting that true leadership does not end after elections.

“They should be able to consult and communicate with various ward members and communities throughout their tenure, once elected,” he said.

Mr David highlighted other expectations to include competence, sincerity, proven character, and respect for community values and culture, while driving modernisation, unity and social cohesion.

Similarly, the President of the Bwari Youths Forum, John Awoyi, stressed the need for leaders who would ensure accountability by involving all stakeholders, especially the youth, in budget planning.

He said this was part of ensuring inclusiveness in areas that matter to every group as well as ensuring proper allocation of funds as it affects the sector.

Mr Awoyi also said that candidates must prioritise the welfare of public school teachers and healthcare workers in the district.

“They are the closest to the people at the grassroots, and their welfare is key to the development of these people; it should not be toyed with,” he said.

On the conduct of the elections, Mr Awoyi said that his group had already been cautioned against any form of violence or disruption of the process on the scheduled date.

He said that members had accordingly been asked to mobilise themselves, go out en masse and vote for candidates of their choice without prejudice.

The leader also urged stakeholders involved in the electoral process, including security agencies, to be organised and ensure a seamless and successful process.

He stated, “People should be allowed to vote without the fear of intimidation from any quarters. I also appeal to all political party representatives to conduct themselves well and desist from any electoral malpractice that can lead to disruption of a peaceful process.

“Let us have seamless, free, fair elections where our votes must count, and whoever emerges winner should be accepted and not result in violence.”

(NAN)