Nasarawa North: Maku alleges plot to manipulate results, identifies 9 wards

Labour Party senatorial candidate for Nasarawa North, Labaran Maku, has raised alarm over what he described as a plan to compromise the June 20 bye-election in parts of the district.

Speaking at a press conference in Akpata, Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area on Wednesday, the former Minister of Information claimed nine wards in Nasarawa Eggon had been earmarked for electoral manipulation due to their high voter population and perceived support for the Labour Party.

Maku alleged that some political interests were uneasy about the growing popularity of his candidacy and were exploring ways to influence the outcome of the poll.

According to the Labour Party candidate, the party enjoys strong grassroots support across Nasarawa Eggon, Akwanga, and Wamba Local Government Areas, bolstering confidence ahead of the election.

“We have credible information suggesting moves to interfere with the electoral process because some people have realized that the electorate is determined to vote for change,” Maku said.

He warned that political thugs were reportedly being mobilised to disrupt voting in strategic locations, stressing that any attempt to undermine the will of the people could trigger tension and erode public confidence in democracy.

Maku called on federal authorities and security agencies to ensure neutrality and resist political pressure that could compromise the credibility of the exercise. He also expressed concern over the redeployment of senior security officers in the state, claiming the move mirrors past controversial election periods.

The former minister further accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of imposing an unpopular candidate through non-transparent primaries for the bye-election.

Despite the allegations, Maku remained optimistic about his chances, insisting that voters in Nasarawa North consistently vote based on competence, credibility, and track record rather than party affiliation.

He urged residents to stay peaceful, vigilant, and committed to the democratic process as preparations for the bye-election reach the final stages.