By Emeka Samuel, Uyo
Forum of Governorship Candidates in Akwa Ibom state (FORGAK), have commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Resident Commissioner in the state, Mike Igini, for conducting credible and transparent Presidential and National Assembly in the state.
In a communique issued at the end of the meeting of the forum in Uyo the group described the elections as a key milestone in the country’s democratic development.
They commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting the most transparent, free, fair, peaceful and credible elections across the country.
The communique which is jointly signed by Ekong Eyo, governorship candidate of the YPP and Itoro Bassey governorship candidate of the GPN as chairman and Secretary respectively the group congratulated the Akwa Ibom State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Barr Mike Igini, for exhibiting professionalism and neutrality despite reported threats, intimidation and blackmail before and during the election.
“We note with gladness that INEC deployment of its personnel and materials on election day was timely, efficient and has received accolades from all relevant stakeholders for a superlative performance.” It said.
They also commended the State REC for ensuring that the just-concluded elections complied with International Best Practice and Globally Accepted Standard in line with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act of 2010 as amended.
The forum which is made up of governorship candidates of 32 political parties in the state expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the elections stressing that “polling agents of our different political parties watched votes being counted at polling units.
“According to field reports, the announcement of the vote from each ballot was done clearly, and citizens were monitoring the process along with officials and party monitors. The final results were affixed at the individual polling units.
“We heartily congratulate the good people of Akwa Ibom for trooping out to the polls booth last Saturday, to elect the President and National Assembly members. So far, we make bold to state with all emphasis that, the outcome is a reflection of the will of the people as expressed at the polls.”
“FORGAK also congratulates Akwa Ibomites for their civil, peaceful and orderly conduct in jealously guarding their mandate and proving that the will of the people is supreme in a democracy.” It said.
