In preparation for the local government elections, the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) has started distributing sensitive election materials to all 18 local government areas. Dr. Edet Boco, Chairman of CROSIEC, presented these materials for review by key stakeholders in Calabar, highlighting the Commission’s commitment to transparency.
Dr. Boco assured the public that CROSIEC is fully equipped to hold a free, fair, and credible election. “We have gathered with security agencies, IPAC representatives, and the media to ensure transparency,” he explained. “Voting will be conducted manually, beginning at 8 a.m. and concluding at 2 p.m., though it may extend if there are still voters in line.”
He emphasized the importance of public trust in the electoral process. “Transparency is crucial, and we want every voter to have confidence in CROSIEC,” Dr. Boco said. “We encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote, and the results will reflect the people’s choice.”
Dr. Boco also confirmed that all polling units used for the election will align with those designated by INEC, totaling 3,281 polling stations. Each unit will have three staff members, supported by 460 supervisors, 18 returning officers, and 196 ward collation officers.
He noted that CROSIEC’s ad hoc staff were recruited from the public, trained thoroughly, and sworn to oaths of allegiance and confidentiality to uphold a fair and orderly election.
Echoing these sentiments, Engr. Effiom Okon, the state chairman of the Action People’s Party and leader of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and voiced optimism for a smooth, credible election.
