The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) recently announced that it will conduct a rerun for local government elections, specifically targeting the positions of 21 councillors out of the 325 wards across the state. This decision follows the local government elections held on October 9, which saw the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) achieve a sweeping victory by winning all chairmanship positions in the seventeen local government areas (LGAs) within Plateau State. Amidst this backdrop, the All Progressives Congress (APC), via its Publicity Secretary Shittu Bamaiyi, expressed uncertainty about participating in the rerun, stating that the party had not yet reached a decision.
The election results have sparked significant controversy, primarily due to the APC’s outright rejection of the outcomes. In a press conference, APC State Chairman Rufus Bature labeled the elections as fraudulent and criticized the electoral conduct. PLASIEC Chairman Plangji Cishak, during the announcement of the rerun, reaffirmed that the declared results, which showed the PDP securing 285 councillor positions against the APC’s 14, would not be altered for the chairmanship roles but would address unresolved councillor seats in the rerun scheduled for October 19. This situation highlights the tensions and divisions in the political landscape of Plateau State, accentuated by claims from the APC of irregularities throughout the electoral process.
Cishak’s address also included the presentation of certificates of return to 304 councillors-elect, encompassing significant political milestones such as the election of two Igbo youths from Jos North LGA, Austin Wachuku and Okoro Uzoma, both under the PDP banner. Their victories are particularly noteworthy as they represent ethnic diversity within local governance, showcasing the inclusivity of the electoral process. In his remarks, Cishak emphasized the importance of the councillors upholding their duties to serve the public effectively, providing a foundational expectation for the newly elected officials as they prepare to fulfill their responsibilities within the local government framework.
The assurance of a credible electoral process and the drive for improved governance were central themes in Cishak’s communications. He highlighted PLASIEC’s efforts to ensure that the election was conducted in a fair and transparent manner, despite the accusations levied by the opposition party. Cishak reinforced the organization’s mandate to ensure electoral integrity while also noting their prerogative to review election outcomes as necessary. This statement serves to clarify the commission’s role and responsibilities within the political framework and highlights their commitment to upholding the democratic process.
In the aftermath of the elections, the sentiment among newly elected councillors appears to be one of hope and responsibility. Many voiced their appreciation for PLASIEC’s management of the election process, emphasizing a desire for cooperation from all parties involved to promote the development of Plateau State. This appeal for unity indicates an eagerness among the councillors to transcend partisan divides and work collaboratively towards common goals that benefit their communities. By prioritizing development and stability, these elected officials signal a commitment to serving their constituents effectively amidst a fraught political climate.
The situation in Plateau State encapsulates the complexities of Nigerian local politics, marked by competition among various political parties, allegations of electoral malpractice, and the challenges inherent in ensuring inclusive representation. As the rerun approaches, the decisions made by the APC regarding participation could have significant implications for both party dynamics and the overall political environment in the state. The importance of building trust among the electorate and fostering a collaborative spirit among political leaders is paramount, as these elements are critical for advancing governance and ensuring accountability within the local government structure. The outcome of the rerun will not only impact the immediate political landscape but also set precedents for future electoral processes in the region.
