NAN
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Cross River has commenced the display of National Register of Voters across all political wards in the state, ahead of the 2019 general elections.
Dr Frankland Briyai, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state made the disclosure while addressing journalists on Monday in Calabar.
He said the exercise was in accordance with Section 19 and 20 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), adding that it would hold from Nov. 6 to Nov 12.
The REC explained that the exercise, which commenced in April 2017, was suspended in August to make way for the revision, update, certification and publication of the final Voter’s Register for the general elections.
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He said that the significance of the excise was to address the removal of deceased registered voters, non Nigerians, under aged voters and multiple registrations among others.
According to him, the commission has also approved the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) at the Registration Areas during the display of Register of Voters.
“Ahead of the 2019 general elections, the commission has announced the display of the National Register of Voters, starting from Nov. 6 to Nov. 12, 2018.
“The state offices have printed and updated Register of Voters and sent to the Electoral Officers at the local government area offices.
“The 7-day exercise which will hold at the Registration Areas will also feature the hearing of Claims and Objections.
“Those that are yet to collect their PVCs are advised to go their Registration Areas and collect their PVCs.
“There will be two officers in each Registration Area, the Revision Officer and Assistant Revision Officer.
“Also, there will be three Supervisory Revision Officers per local government to supervise the cluster of Registration Areas,’’ he said.
He advised residents in to take the exercise serious, in order to assist the commission in the clean-up of the Voter Register.
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On the forthcoming State House of Assembly by-election for Ikom II State Constituency, scheduled for Nov. 17, the REC said the commission was ready for the election.
He urged all members of the political parties contesting in the election to adhere strictly to the rules of the election and avoid violence before, during and after the exercise.
“The commission assures the people of Cross Rivers that it will continue to provide a level playing ground for all political parties to operate.
“This is necessary to enhance the growth of democracy, particularly during the forthcoming elections.“