The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) has again reaffirmed its unwavering commitment towards the conduct of free, fair and credible Local Government Council Elections in Plateau State come 9th October, 2024.
The assurance came from the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Hon. Daniel Plangji Cishak during a Press Conference at the Commission’s Headquarters Jos, the Plateau State Capital few hours to the Local Government Polls.Hon. Cishak also assured all Candidates Contesting for the Seventeen (17) Local Government Council Chairmanship and 325 Councillorship Seats in the State of a level playing ground.
He also stated that the Commission has put all measures including security, logistics and others that would guarantee credible elections that would be emulated by other State of the Federation.
He harped on the commitment of the Commission to uphold accountability, transparency and integrity of the electoral processes. He acknowledged the supportive roles of the Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, who he said has respected the Commission’s operational independence, as well as the guidance received from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Plateau State.
“We are grateful for the broad support from all sectors, including traditional rulers, members of the State House of Assembly, elders, youth and women’s groups, election observers, and civil society organizations,” Cishak said. “Their cooperation has been essential to our progress.”
Highlighting the future of the commission, Cishak announced plans to establish an electoral institute in Plateau State to enhance the quality of electoral processes. He also revealed the Commission’s goal to construct dedicated prototype offices in all 17 local government areas, ensuring closer ties with rural communities and eliminating the need for local councils to rent office spaces.He hinted that the Commission has made significant investments in technological and logistical upgrades to streamline the election process.
The introduction of the PLASIEC Voter Verification System (PVS) is set to expedite voter identification and reduce delays at polling units.
Cishak shared that the success of a recent mock election, held across six local government areas on September 28, demonstrated the readiness of PLASIEC’s systems and personnel.
“This election will feature near 300 accredited election observers from both local and international bodies,” Cishak explained.
“Their presence is critical to ensuring transparency, as they assess the credibility of the election while helping to reflect the true wishes of the people.”On Election Day, polls will open at 8:00 a.m., and voters will need either their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) or VIN numbers for verification. Once verified, they will receive ballots to cast their votes.
The PLASIEC chairman stressed the importance of voter security, noting that the Plateau Advisory Consultative Committee on Election Security (PACES) has been actively involved in ensuring safe polling environments.In a meeting with key stakeholders, including religious leaders, traditional rulers, and youth representatives, Cishak underscored the need for peace and cooperation.
“As former President Goodluck Jonathan once said, ‘No ambition is worth the blood of anyone.’ This guiding principle should resonate with all interest groups before, during, and after the election,” he stated.
Cishak further urged members of the press to uphold professionalism, avoid sensationalism, and verify information with PLASIEC officials, stressing that only PLASIEC is authorized to announce final election results.
With the deployment of over 20,000 ad-hoc staff and security measures in place, PLASIEC remains confident in the success of the October 9 election.
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