By
Bamanga Abdullahi Gombi
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, campaign billboards and posters are flooding towns and cities, and many residents say such displays are fast becoming an eyesore.
In Yola, Radio Nigeria found that the posters are now a major source of environmental clutter and becoming a source of public concern.
Professor Mahdi Abba is with the Department of Political Science, Modibbo Adama University, Yola and he says credibility should be tested by past achievements, not slogans.
He contended that leadership is not a reward for political loyalty, but a contract for future performance.
He warned that hardship and sentiments can mislead voters and urged citizens to endure by electing competent and trustworthy leaders.
“Assess their responsibility, honestly, and sincerity. Are they people who sacrifice their energy and resources, for the larger society? If candidate “A” is better than “B” then give your vote to the one your assessment truly convinces you”.
Professor Abba faulted politicians who dump their manifestos after winning election, but reminded them that voters have the power to recall non-performing leaders.
Also speaking, former Adamawa State NLC Chairman, Comrade Dauda Maina, says the search for credible leaders must go beyond campaign promises, ethnic or religious sentiments.
He insisted that voters need to asses aspirants on character, competence and consistency, citing example with how deceptive some lawmakers promise roads, water and schools when such duties are purely that of the executive.
“A responsible leader most stands by his words, not promising people heaven and earth, and subsequently failing to fulfill”
Comrade Maina urged the electorate to scrutinize contestants’ records while reminding them that their PVCs are the ticket to a brighter future and should be used wisely.
From the legal angle, Barrister Abubakar Zubairu Kolo says the Constitution is clear on eligibility and stressed the need for candidates to meet such conditions to avoid disqualification on the long run.
Barrister Kolo explained that Section 28 bars naturalized citizens from contesting for President, Senate, or House of Representatives.
“EFCC and ICPC can investigate and compare, what a person possessed before and after holding public office. If irregularities are found, that person will be arraigned for corruption or abuse of office.”
On post-election conduct, the lawyer said the Electoral Act mandates asset declaration, unfortunately about 75 percent of contestants ignore this requirement.
Poster placement has become a business for many jobless youths, but mostly triggering violence between rival party supporters.
The yearning of many Nigerians is the hope for the free, fair and credible elections that could guarantee peace afterwards.
