A group of concerned elders in Numan Local Government Area of Adamawa State has raised concerns over what it described as emerging irregularities ahead of the forthcoming local government elections scheduled for Saturday, warning that any attempt to compromise the process could undermine public confidence in the exercise.
The elders, speaking under the banner of the Numan Vision Forum, made their position known during a press briefing in Numan, where they called on the Adamawa State Independent Electoral Commission (ADSIEC) and security agencies to take immediate steps to ensure a free, fair, and credible election.
Addressing journalists on behalf of the forum, Chairman of the group, Prof. Alikodon Voh, said the elders were not acting on behalf of any political party or candidate, but were motivated by a desire to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and protect the democratic rights of the people.
According to him, reports and developments observed in the buildup to the election have raised suspicions of possible foul play, prompting the forum to draw the attention of relevant authorities before the polls are conducted. He stressed that addressing any perceived irregularities early would help prevent disputes and preserve peace in the area.
Prof. Voh urged ADSIEC to remain impartial and ensure that all electoral guidelines are strictly followed, while calling on security agencies to provide a level playing field for all contestants. He also appealed to political actors and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and refrain from actions capable of disrupting the electoral process.
The forum maintained that credible local government elections are essential for strengthening grassroots democracy and promoting public trust in governance. It noted that the legitimacy of elected officials depends largely on the transparency and fairness of the process that produces them.
“We are not against any candidate or political party. Our concern is that the election must be free, fair and acceptable to all. The people’s votes should count, and the outcome should genuinely reflect their wishes. That is the foundation of democracy and peaceful coexistence,” Prof. Voh stated.
The group therefore called on all stakeholders, including electoral officials, security agencies, community leaders and political parties, to work collectively towards ensuring a peaceful, transparent and credible election in Numan Local Government Area.