As the November local government elections in Taraba State draw closer, All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship aspirant for Yorro Local Government, Ishaya Hashin Kunzang, has pledged to uplift the living standards of his people if elected.
Speaking with journalists in Jalingo, Kunzang said he was compelled to heed the calls of constituents urging him to run, citing poor living conditions, especially among youths “wandering without direction.”
He noted that Yorro, though agrarian with markets in nearly every village, lacks accessible roads to move farm produce. “From Malam Audu, Kassa to Gampu, there are no roads. People struggle to take their produce to markets. I will prioritize opening feeder roads to ease their hardship and boost local revenue,” Kunzang promised.
The APC aspirant also lamented the absence of a tertiary institution in Yorro, which he described as a major setback for youths. He vowed to lobby for at least a diploma-awarding institution to enable secondary school leavers to further their education.
Kunzang revealed that supporters purchased the APC nomination form worth ₦300,000 on his behalf, underscoring the strength of grassroots backing. He also criticized the Taraba State Independent Electoral Commission (TSIEC) over the ₦1 million intent form fee, describing it as “exorbitant” and urging a reduction to ₦300,000 to ensure inclusiveness.
On his chances against the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kunzang expressed optimism.
“I know PDP is strong in the state, but with its poor performance and unfulfilled promises, coupled with the people’s demand for change, my chances of winning are very high. This is not a do-or-die affair, but I will stand as the people’s candidate,” he said.
The APC hopeful also urged eligible voters to obtain their voter’s cards and conduct themselves peacefully during the elections, assuring that Yorro will maintain its reputation for peace.
