As Nasarawa State approaches the 2027 general elections, the familiar rhythm of Nigerian politics is beginning to resurface.
Politicians who have been largely absent from their constituencies for years are suddenly reappearing, attending community gatherings, paying courtesy visits, sharing food items, and promising rapid development. These gestures, often packaged as goodwill, typically emerge only when election season is near.
This cycle of political disappearance and sudden re-engagement raises fundamental questions about leadership, accountability, and the future direction of governance in Nasarawa State.
For far too long, many public officeholders in the state have adopted a troubling pattern: visible during campaigns, invisible during governance. Once elected, they retreat behind the walls of office, distancing themselves from the very people they pledged to serve. Constituency visits stop. Communication lines shut down.
Community needs go unaddressed. Promised projects are either abandoned or forgotten.
Yet, three years later, many of these leaders return, expecting the same people they neglected to embrace them once again at the polls.
A Costly Mistake
Rewarding leaders who disappear after elections sends a dangerous message that performance, presence, and accountability do not matter. It encourages political impunity.
It empowers individuals who see public office not as a responsibility but as a personal privilege.
Nasarawa State cannot afford to continue down this path.
Whether at the ward, local government, or state level, leadership must be judged by consistent engagement, visible impact, and transparent communication.
A public servant who has not maintained contact with constituents, provided periodic updates, initiated meaningful projects, or responded to community concerns should not be rewarded with reelection.
Leadership Must Not Be Seasonal
Across Nasarawa, from Keana to Karu, from Awe to Akwanga—many communities encounter their leaders only twice within the electoral cycle: just before elections and at the polls.
This seasonal presence deprives citizens of the continuous representation that democracy requires.
Governance is not a four-year campaign break.
Leadership is not an occasional ceremonial appearance.
Representation is not a favour to the people, it is a mandate.
A Call for Voter Vigilance in 2027
With the 2027 elections approaching, voters in Nasarawa State must adopt a new standard when evaluating candidates. They must ask:
- Where were you during the past three years?
- What have you done that we can see, feel, and verify?
- How often did you meet the people you represent?
- Which projects or policies reflect your service?
These questions are not hostile, they are democratic.
No willing, credible leader should fear them.
The Way Forward
Nasarawa State stands at a crossroads. The decision voters make in 2027 will determine whether the culture of political disappearance continues or whether a new era of accountable leadership begins.
Citizens must recognise their power.
They must understand that every vote either sustains the old system or builds a new one.
Final Word
As the campaigns intensify in the coming months, Nasarawa voters must remain discerning. The state deserves leaders who are present, responsive, and committed—not those who resurface only when elections are near.
The message is simple, clear, and timely:
In 2027, do not vote for deceptive candidates who disappeared after winning.
You have been warned, this time, let your vote reflect your memory.
