Governor Umaru Bago of Niger has expressed satisfaction with the turnout of voters during Saturday’s local government council elections in the state.

Mr Bago, in an interview after voting at the Tswashagi Rabba Polling Unit 010, Landzun Ward, Bida Local Government Area, described the turnout, especially in his ward, as unprecedented. 

He said the turnout reflected the people’s confidence in the democratic process.

“This is an experience that shows the acceptance of democracy in Nigeria,” said the governor. “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.”

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 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 First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and his wife, 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.

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, 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.

(NAN)