Economic Hardship: Poor turnout mars Jigawa LG elections as residents shun polls

By Umar Akilu Majeri, Dutse

The local government elections held across all 27 local government areas in Jigawa State today witnessed significant voter apathy, attributed largely to the ongoing economic hardships faced by residents.

Also, The Commissioner for Local Government, Alhaji Maikudi Muhammed, hailed the election as one of the best conducted in the state’s history, noting its peaceful and fair execution.

“The election was conducted in a peaceful manner, free of any hitches,” he stated after Governor Umar Namadi cast his vote at the Immam Hassan Islamiyya voting unit in Kafin Hausa.

He confidently predicted that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would secure all chairmanship and councilor positions, insisting, “The present administration has done well for the people, especially at the grassroots level.”

Despite these assurances, turnout at polling units was notably low. Many residents were seen resting under trees or engaged in their daily activities instead of voting.

At the Immam Hassan Islamiyya polling unit, only 44 out of 156 registered voters participated. Similarly, at the Kargumaka Kafi polling unit, a mere ten of the 431 registered voters cast their ballots.

Reports from various areas indicated that some polling centers lacked adequate election materials, further discouraging participation. High fuel prices have exacerbated the situation, impacting residents’ ability to engage in the electoral process.

Interviews with voters in Kafin Hausa, Auyo, Hadejia, Malam Madori, and Ringim revealed a widespread sentiment of disenchantment with the electoral system.

Many expressed their reluctance to vote, citing concerns that their votes would not lead to meaningful change. “We believe that even if we participate, we will not get what we vote for,” one resident remarked.

Others indicated their support for candidates from the PDP and NNPP but felt that the current government would prevent them from winning.