As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the governorship candidate of the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) in Taraba State, Aboki Stephen Bayonga, has called on 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.
Bayonga made the appeal in Jalingo shortly after receiving the party’s flag as its governorship candidate, using the occasion to highlight 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 prospects in the 2027 governorship election, stating that it possesses the organisational structure, vision and capacity needed to provide effective leadership and form the next government in Taraba State.
However, beyond political ambitions, Bayonga’s message focused largely on the electorate, particularly young people, 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 at 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.
His remarks come amid intensified efforts by electoral stakeholders across the country to encourage voter registration and participation, especially among groups that have historically recorded lower voter turnout during elections.
Bayonga noted that the ongoing voter registration exercise provides an opportunity for eligible citizens to obtain 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.
The governorship hopeful further stressed that democracy thrives 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 significant challenges.
Observers say Bayonga’s emphasis on voter mobilisation reflects growing recognition among political leaders of the influential role young voters are expected to play in the 2027 elections.
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.
As preparations for the next electoral cycle continue, he urged residents to view voter registration not merely as a civic responsibility but as an opportunity to contribute actively to the state’s development and democratic growth.
For many political stakeholders, the race to 2027 may have begun in earnest, but Bayonga believes the first step toward meaningful change starts with a simple act: registering to vote.