The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Abubakar Gombe, has called on residents of Bwari Area Council to seize the moment and shape their future through informed participation in Saturday’s FCT Area Council elections.
Gombe made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Sarkin of Bwari, Awal Musa Ijakoro II, where SDP leaders paid homage and sought royal blessings ahead of the polls.
Addressing community stakeholders, he described local government as the heartbeat of grassroots development, noting that it remains the closest and most impactful tier of governance. According to him, effective area council leadership determines the quality of service delivery, infrastructure growth, and social harmony within communities.
He urged voters to scrutinise candidates carefully, emphasizing competence, integrity, and accessibility as key leadership qualities. “The power to determine Bwari’s direction lies with the people,” he stressed, reaffirming the party’s commitment to people-focused governance anchored on economic empowerment, security, and responsive public service.
Gombe expressed confidence in the SDP chairmanship candidate, Abubakar Abdullahi, describing him as a grassroots-oriented leader prepared to align local governance with community aspirations.
Former SDP presidential candidate, Adewole Adebayo, also highlighted the strategic importance of area council administration in strengthening democracy.
He described local government as the foundation of national development, noting that when governance works effectively at the grassroots, pressure on higher levels of government is significantly reduced.
Adebayo encouraged residents to participate peacefully and reject inducements, maintaining that voter vigilance and active turnout are critical to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.
He further advocated closer collaboration between elected officials and traditional institutions, acknowledging the invaluable advisory role of royal fathers in maintaining stability and guiding development.
Abdullahi Pledges Inclusive, Transparent Leadership
Speaking during the palace visit, SDP chairmanship candidate Abubakar Abdullahi outlined his vision for an inclusive and transparent administration.
Accompanied by his running mate, Mr. Pope Ngoposha, Abdullahi described his ambition as one rooted in service and collective progress. He pledged to build a leadership structure that reflects Bwari’s diversity and ensures fair distribution of opportunities across ethnic, religious, and political lines.
According to him, his administration would prioritise participatory governance, improved infrastructure, enhanced service delivery, and stronger community engagement.
In his remarks, the Sarkin of Bwari called for unity and peaceful conduct before, during, and after the elections. He reminded political actors and residents alike that elections are ultimately decided by the will of the people and urged all stakeholders to respect the outcome of the democratic process.
The monarch prayed for a smooth and credible election, encouraging candidates to campaign responsibly and avoid actions capable of undermining public order.
As preparations intensify across the six FCT area councils, stakeholders continue to stress transparency, security, and robust voter participation as pillars of a credible electoral exercise.
SDP Mobilises Grassroots Support Ahead of Bwari Council Elections
