Igala Leaders Urge Voter Registration As INEC 2-week Window Opens

Leaders of the Igala and Bassa communities have urged their kinsmen to take advantage of the two-week grace period granted by the Independent National Electoral Commission to register as voters for future elections.

They warned that without a valid voter card, the would not be able to elect their preferred leaders.

The appeal was made over the weekend in Abuja during the Igala-Bassa Renaissance Project fundraising dinner organised by the Ukomu Igala Organisation, which targeted N500 million.

Speaking at the event, the member representing Idah federal constituency, Hon. David Idris Zacharias, said voter apathy among the people was largely driven by concerns over lack of development.

“As a House of Representatives member, I should know what the problem is.

” Our people refuse to come out to register because they are asking what the dividend is for supporting government when they don’t have development,” he said.

He added that community leaders were working to re-orientate residents on the importance of civic participation.

“You don’t expect government to bring development while you sit down alone. This voter card is what you use to define the person you bring into government,” Zacharias stated.

In his welcome remarks, former Kogi State governor Idris Ichalla Wada described low voter registration figures in Kogi East as disturbing, noting that the region was lagging behind Kogi West and Central.

“We still have a window of opportunity over the next two weeks to bring out our people to register. What is important about registration is the number,” Wada said.

He explained that the number of registered voters plays a significant role in determining election outcomes, urging stakeholders to mobilise communities to improve participation.

“It’s very important that we beef up our numbers. Let us rally around and talk to our people at home to achieve what we can over the next two weeks,” he added, while also calling for generous donations to support the project.

Also speaking, president of the Ukomu Igala Organisation, Maj-Gen. James Ataguba (retd.), urged the people to invest in community security, unity and civic engagement.

“What you give today is not a donation. It is a seed that will grow into a stronger, more united and more prosperous Igala and Bassa land,” he said.

Traditional ruler Attah Achadu described the gathering as culturally significant rather than political, saying his presence was to offer support and prayers for the welfare of the kingdom.

“The Igala organisation is a cultural body that provides for the welfare of the kingdom. I am here to support our sons and daughters culturally and prayer-wise,” he said.