PLASIEC Brief Observers Ahead of Local Government Polls in Plateau State

As preparations for the 2024 Local Government Council Elections in Plateau State reaches advanced stage, the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) hosted an interactive session today at Fox Hotel in Jos for both local and international election observers. This session aimed to update and sensitize accredited observers on the commission’s level of preparedness and clarify expectations for the election, scheduled for October 9, 2024. A total of 11 political parties will participate in the elections.

The interactive session brought together representatives from civil society organizations, social advocacy groups, and prominent citizens. In his address, PLASIEC Chairman, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, emphasized Plateau State’s welcoming environment and expressed hope that the observers would help foster confidence in the election process.

Cishak highlighted the commission’s achievements since his appointment on June 10, 2024, noting significant improvements in PLASIEC’s operations and its commitment to holding fair elections. “Within three months, we’ve transformed our administrative and operational systems,” Cishak stated. “For the first time in Plateau State, we have 11 political parties participating. This endorsement shows that states need to domesticate their activities to reflect the unique contexts in which they exist.”

PLASIEC has also implemented a new voter verification system, allowing displaced individuals who may lack Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to participate using their Voter Identification Numbers (VINs). This system aims to include internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the voting process, which has been an ongoing issue in previous elections. “With this device, we only require your VIN. Once it is verified, you’re allowed to vote,” Cishak explained.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by limited resources, the commission is adopting a “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) model, allowing the use of personal smartphones for election-related tasks. PLASIEC has collaborated with state tertiary institutions, with students assisting in the election process. “Students are traceable, accountable, and will help us maintain the integrity of the system,” Cishak noted.

Cishak called on observers to provide constructive feedback and criticism, stressing that “we are here for the people, not ourselves. We welcome feedback to improve and build a robust electoral system for Plateau State.”

Hon. Deborah Plangnan Akanle, Chairman of the Committee on Media and Voter Education, emphasized the importance of integrity and accountability. “Let’s observe rightly and truthfully. There’s a God that everyone fears, and I urge us to remember this as we conduct our duties. It costs more to be unfaithful than to be faithful. Let’s make Plateau a better place, observe rightly, and correct wisely without causing confusion,” she added, expressing hope that the election process would set a positive example for the future.

Facilitating the interactive session, Gad Peter Shamaki and Mrs. Patricia Pam addressed observers on the checklist and considerations for people living with disabilities. “In observing the 2024 elections, you are being deployed to Local Government Areas to observe the conduct of the elections. On this checklist, you should document your observations carefully,” they advised. They reminded observers that election officials are responsible for election processes and cautioned against interference or disruption. “If you notice any wrongdoing or breach of law, politely draw the attention of PLASIEC officials to it, and document separately the details of each Polling Unit where you observe any incidents.”

PLASIEC’s efforts to digitize processes also include a newly launched, fully functional website that allows for candidate nominations without physical visits to the office, which has been touted as an advancement over Nigeria’s national election body.

The interactive session concluded with PLASIEC’s call for unbiased and objective observation, underscoring the importance of a transparent process that could serve as a model for other States.