Ebonyi: Stakeholders Prepare For LG Polls

The Chairman, Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission (EBSIEC), Mr John Nkwuda, has urged politicians to shun violence and other electoral offences.

Nkwuda said this Tuesday during a voter education and sensitisation rally in Afikpo North Local Government Area of the state.

The rally was organised by the commission as part of preparations for the forthcoming September council election in the state.

He said that the voter education and sensitisation campaign was part of plans by the electoral body to ensure that the masses were properly educated and informed.

According to him, the commission attaches great importance to the election because of its relevance to grassroots development.

He assured that the commission was determined to ensure massive participation by the people in choosing their preferred leaders, noting that the voter education and enlightenment would prepare the electorate and equip them with adequate knowledge to make right decision in choosing their leaders.

Nkwuda also noted that the rally would further enhance the knowledge of the voters on how to thumb print on the ballot papers, protect their votes as well as shun financial inducements.

He enjoined the people to ensure that their votes were counted during the local government election.

The chairman said that arrangements that would guarantee free and fair election had been put in place and stressed that the commission would not hesitate to disqualify candidates who indulged in electoral violence and other electoral malpractice.

“We are ready for the September election and every necessary arrangement has been put in place for its smooth conduct.

“The commission will disqualify and also prosecute in the law court candidates or their supporters who foment violence or engage in other electoral offences,” he said.

He warned political parties, their candidates and party supporters not to engage in acts capable of derailing the smooth conduct of the election.