The governorship candidate of the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) in Taraba state, Aboki Stephen Bayonga, has urged young people, women and first-time voters to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise and play an active role in shaping the state’s future.
Key Highlights:
Bayonga made the appeal in Jalingo, the state capital, shortly after receiving the party’s flag as its governorship candidate, using the occasion to underscore the importance of civic participation and democratic engagement.
Addressing party supporters, stakeholders and community members, the DLA standard-bearer expressed confidence in the party’s chances of securing victory in the 2027 governorship election.
According to him, the party possesses the organisational structure, vision and capacity required to provide effective leadership and form the next government in Taraba state.
However, beyond political ambitions, Bayonga’s message focused largely on the power of the electorate, particularly the young population, whom he described as critical to the state’s democratic and developmental aspirations.
“The future of Taraba state largely depends on the choices its people make aRead t the ballot box. Young people, women and first-time voters must understand that their participation can determine the direction of governance and development in the state,” he said.
Bayonga noted that the ongoing voter registration exercise presents a unique opportunity for eligible citizens to secure their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and position themselves to influence decisions that will affect the state’s future.
Describing the PVC as more than just an electoral document, he said it remains one of the most powerful tools available to citizens for demanding accountability and driving positive change through democratic means.
“Youths, women and first-time voters must not sit on the sidelines during this important process. Their voices matter, and their participation will help shape the future of Taraba State,” he added.
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The governorship hopeful further stressed that democracy flourishes when citizens actively participate in electing credible leaders and engage constructively in governance through peaceful and lawful channels.
He also called on political actors, traditional institutions and civil society organisations to strengthen voter education and awareness campaigns across communities, particularly in rural areas where voter apathy and limited access to electoral information remain challenges.
Expressing optimism about the state’s democratic future, Bayonga argued that increased voter turnout and broader civic engagement would enhance the credibility, transparency and inclusiveness of future elections in Taraba state.



