RETIRED TEACHER TURNS LEADER: BALASA WINS BALI COUNCIL ELECTION IN TARABA STATE
Mohammed Tikka
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Hon. Habila Bala Balasa, has been declared the winner of the Bali Local Government chairmanship election held on Saturday in Taraba State.
The election, which was part of the just-concluded local government polls across the state, saw Balasa emerge victorious with a total of 118,416 votes, a result that firmly positioned him ahead of other contenders.
The announcement was made by the Returning Officer at the collation centre in Bali, amid cheers from supporters and residents who had gathered to witness the official declaration.
In his acceptance speech shortly after being declared winner, Hon. Balasa expressed profound gratitude to Almighty God for what he described as a remarkable and life-changing moment.
He said the victory was made possible through the unwavering support and confidence reposed in him by the good people of Bali Local Government Area.
“This day is a unique one in my life,” he said. “I never imagined that I would stand here today as the chairman-elect of Bali Local Government. I owe this to God and to the people who believed in me.”
Balasa also extended heartfelt appreciation to the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for his trust and for giving him the opportunity to serve.
He further acknowledged the consistent support and mentorship of the two lawmakers representing Bali at the Taraba State House of Assembly, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Hamman Adama Abdullahi, and Hon. Veronica Alhassan, whom he referred to as his “principals and pillars of strength.”
He commended the Taraba State Independent Electoral Commission (TSIEC), security agencies, and residents of Bali for ensuring that the entire election process was peaceful, transparent, and well-coordinated.
According to him, the large voter turnout was a testament to the people’s acceptance of his leadership and their faith in the current government’s vision for a better Taraba.
Calling for unity and reconciliation, the chairman-elect appealed to those who may be unhappy with the outcome of the polls to accept it in good faith and join hands with him in moving Bali forward.
“Leadership comes only from God,” he said. “I am calling on everyone, both my supporters and those who opposed me, to come together so we can build a stronger and more developed Bali. My door will remain open to all.”
Hon. Balasa emphasized that his administration would prioritize the issue of security as a foundation for development. He pledged to complement the efforts of Governor Kefas and relevant security agencies to address the rising security concerns in the area. “My goal is to make sure our people can sleep peacefully with their two eyes closed,” he assured.
He further called on residents to continue to support his administration through prayers and cooperation, stressing that “with unity and prayers, we can overcome every challenge.”
Before venturing into politics, Hon. Habila Bala Balasa had served for several years as a teacher and principal in various schools across Bali. His long career in education and his close relationship with the community are widely seen as factors that endeared him to voters and contributed to his resounding victory.
His emergence has been hailed by many observers as a reflection of the people’s trust in his leadership qualities, humility, and commitment to community development.
