By Samuel Ogenyi , Uyo
Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom has commended the peaceful nature of the local government elections in the state despite voters’ apathy.
As at about 10am when Governor Emmanuel arrived his polling unit for accreditation and voting simultaneously at Awa ward 1, Onna local government area on Saturday, the turn out of voters was very poor.
But Emmanuel applauded the orderliness and preparedness of the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) adding that the processes leading up to the elections were transparent.
“I think this is one of the peaceful elections we have ever had. I drove from Uyo down here trying to monitor the elections. I like the quietness and orderliness of the elections and I am also surprised at the preparedness of AKISIEC, the quality of materials; it is of a very high standard.
“They can keep it up, and even the transparency of the processes is commendable. They have done a good work but it is unfortunate that people will still be complaining even when we score the process 99 percent. I would only encourage them to do more.
“I have confidence in the elections. If I didn’t have confidence, why should I waste my time coming here? I have confidence much more than ever before. This is the most peaceful elected to elected elections, grace pass grace.” The Governor said.
The Presiding Officer of the ward, Destiny Bob told newsmen that accreditation and elections were done simultaneously, adding that despite the poor turn out of voters, the elections would end by 2pm.
“Elections started by 8am but it’s now 10am, we are still waiting for voters. No party agents are here but I believe they will come.” Bob said.
Other wards and polling units in some parts of the state showed poor turn out of voters with only the electoral officers and security agents were available in some units.
In Eket, some units were yet to receive voting materials as distribution of materials were very slow. Materials arrived Eket central 3, Afia Nist at about 10.42am.
In Uyo urban ward 1, 2, 3 and 4, no voter was seen around the polling units even though electoral officers were on ground and ready for the elections by 9am.Oge
