The Nasarawa State government has rejected allegations made by former Minister of Information and Labour Party (LP) candidate Labaran Maku, who claimed there are plans to manipulate the June 20, 2026, Nasarawa North Senatorial District bye-election.
Government's Response
Governor Abdullahi Sule, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs, Peter Ahemba, addressed a press conference in Lafia, the state capital, describing the allegation as baseless. He challenged Maku to provide concrete evidence to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies.
The government's reaction followed a press briefing held by Maku in Akpata, Nasarawa Eggon Local Council, where the former minister alleged that nine electoral wards in the area had been earmarked for electoral manipulation.
Denial of Interference
Ahemba maintained that the state government had never interfered in the conduct of elections and had no control over the deployment of security personnel, contrary to Maku's claims. He assured voters in Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon, and Wamba local councils that the bye-election would be free, fair, and peaceful.
He stressed that security agencies would safeguard the electoral process and ensure that every valid vote counts. Ahemba also urged political actors to refrain from making unverified allegations capable of creating tension in the state and instead allow the democratic process to take its course.
Focus on Grassroots Mobilisation
Ahemba further stated that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate were concentrating on grassroots mobilisation and voter engagement ahead of the election. He accused the LP candidate of resorting to what he described as “cheap blackmail” and attempts to create unnecessary tension in the polity.
The governor’s aide also expressed concern over Maku’s remarks suggesting that electoral grievances could trigger insecurity in the state. He called on security agencies to take such comments seriously and ensure that all political actors conduct themselves responsibly before, during, and after the election.
Commitment to Democratic Principles
Ahemba reiterated that the Sule administration remains committed to democratic principles, the rule of law, and the conduct of peaceful, free, and fair elections. He noted that the state government had continued to engage traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and other stakeholders to promote peace and prevent actions capable of disrupting the electoral process.
He assured residents of Akwanga, Nasarawa, Eggon, and Wamba local councils that the forthcoming bye-election would be peaceful, transparent, and credible. Ahemba expressed confidence in the ability of INEC and security agencies to conduct a successful exercise, pledging the government’s continued support within the limits of the law.
