Some Nigerians have commended the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and the security agencies in the conduct of the Off-Cycle election in Kogi, Bayelsa, and Imo state on Saturday.
Emmanuel Njoku, the Head of Uzabe elections situation room, CODE spoke on behalf of his team in Lokoja, Kogi State on Saturday. He noted that the Off-Cycle Election electoral officers sent across the three states arrived on time and voting in most polling units was conducted in a peaceful atmosphere.
He said “I want to commend the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission, our diligent security operatives, and the people and government of these three states, for their unwavering commitment to a free, fair, and credible electoral process.
“We want to commend the INEC for the early deployment of the Off-Cycle Election: Adhoc staff and materials which ensured the early commencement of voting in various wards. Notably, priority voting for the elderly has been observed in various locations like Mopa-Muro LGA in Kogi (Pandaya Market) and Ekeremor LGA (Ayama Ward) in Bayelsa amongst others.”
CODE, however, identified some concerns such as voter apathy and vote-buying. He said that “Bayelsa witnessed delayed voting in Kanabiri comp Ward of Sagbama LGA due to the absence of party agents, and late arrival of INEC officials at Yenogoa-Fankpo Square Ward.
“An incident in Ekeremor LGA (Azidekeoreyeine Square Ward), involved an individual attempting to abscond with INEC materials, but citizens resolved the situation without injuries. This stands as a testament to the collective power of the masses.
