Gov Bago says opposition wins in Niger LG poll prove election was transparent
Story: written by Uzuh Rita November 6,2025
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has said the All Progressives Congress’ loss of three councillorship positions in the recent local government elections is evidence that the exercise was free and credible.
The governor made the statement when he hosted the 25 newly elected local government chairmen and their deputies—all from the APC—at the Government House in Minna. Their visit came shortly after the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC) issued certificates of return to them.
Congratulating the winners, Governor Bago urged them to remain modest in victory and reach out to their opponents in the interest of peaceful governance. He called on them to work together to improve development and service delivery at the grassroots, assuring them of his administration’s support.
He also instructed outgoing council chairmen to commence arrangements for a smooth handover process.
Speaking on the unresolved contest in Paikoro Local Government, Bago warned party members against actions that could amount to contempt of court, urging them to wait patiently for the court’s decision.
APC State Chairman, Alhaji Aminu Musa Bobi, commended the governor for the assistance that helped secure the party’s victory. He also congratulated the council leaders-elect.
The ALGON chairman, Alhaji Iliyasu Zakari, who spoke on behalf of the new chairmen, said the visit was to present their certificates and appreciate the governor’s role.
Some of the chairmen told journalists that their administrations would emphasise youth and women empowerment, education, and rural development to improve lives in their communities.
