ADSIEC Chairman Meets Stakeholders, Promises Free, Fair and Transparent LG Elections in Adamawa

The Chairman of the Adamawa State Independent Electoral Commission (ADSIEC), Alhaji Muhammed Umar, has reassured political actors and the general public of the Commission’s unwavering commitment to delivering free, fair, and transparent local government elections, as he convened the first-ever statewide stakeholders’ meeting on Thursday in Yola.

The meeting, held at the Conference Hall of Bridgewood Hotel, Jimeta–Yola, brought together political party representatives, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, security agencies, faith-based bodies, media practitioners, and other key participants in the electoral process. It marked the formal commencement of stakeholder engagement ahead of the next local government elections as the tenure of current council officials—elected on July 13, 2024—draws to an end.

In his opening remarks, Umar expressed delight and described the gathering as “all-important” to ensuring a credible electoral process. He reminded attendees of the Commission’s successful conduct of previous council polls after its inauguration on May 24, 2024, adding that ADSIEC was already deep into preparations for the next election cycle.

Two weeks earlier, the Commission had released the timetable and schedule of activities for the forthcoming elections, along with the official Notice of Election. Umar explained that the stakeholder meeting was necessary to brief participants, exchange ideas, and ensure collaboration toward a smooth and credible exercise.

He emphasized that ADSIEC had already held two consultative meetings with political parties, reiterating his personal commitment—as well as that of his Commissioners and staff—to providing a level playing field for all contestants.

Umar urged political parties to comply strictly with the election timetable, particularly regarding the conduct of primaries. He cautioned party leaders against last-minute rushes that could undermine effective monitoring and overstretch the Commission’s limited resources.

He called on all political parties to strengthen their internal structures, uphold internal democracy, and produce candidates who reflect the will of their members.

The Chairman also reminded parties to submit their schedules of activities for primaries and campaigns ahead of time, noting that such cooperation would enable ADSIEC to plan logistics, monitor events, and ensure compliance with timelines.

He appealed to Royal Fathers to continue sensitizing their subjects, especially by urging eligible residents to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) at INEC local government offices. According to him, “the success of any election depends on the participation of voters.”

Umar commended security agencies for their consistent support in past elections, noting that their presence across the state has always provided confidence and safety for voters and election officials.

He also extended appreciation to the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Electoral Matters, civil society organizations, and religious bodies such as CAN, the Muslim Council, FOWWAN, WOWICAN, among others, for attending the meeting.

The Chairman encouraged faith-based groups and CSOs to intensify sensitization efforts among their members and communities.

Addressing journalists, the ADSIEC Chairman appealed for fairness and objectivity in their reports, urging media houses to help expand public awareness and voter education.

He concluded by inviting all stakeholders to actively engage without reservations, expressing optimism that the collaborative effort would lead to peaceful, credible, and widely accepted local government elections in Adamawa State.

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