2015: Amaechi Insists On Thumb-Print

Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi has hailed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the success of the Permanent Voters Card (PVC) collection so far witnessed in some parts of the state.
Speaking at Ubima Unit 4 Ward 8 in Ikwerre Local Government where he officially collected his PVC at the weekend, Amaechi said that the current peaceful atmosphere should be sustained.
The governor however cautioned against the use of the military, and suggested that INEC should adhere to the use of thumb print machine, which according to him will reduce duplication and rigging.
“If the exercise continues the way it is then most Nigerians will collect their voters card and I am delighted that you said that the thumb printing will work only those with permanent voters card that will vote”, Amaechi remarked.
He also challenged INEC to ensure that the same – atmosphere is maintained in other states, especially those dominated by the opposition parties, “I don’t know what my part would be suffering in other states, but here I must congratulate INEC”, he said.
Governor Amaechi was issued his voter’s card by the National Commissioner in charge of Cross Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers, Mrs Thelma Iremiren and State Commissioner, Mr. Aniedi Ikoiwak.
Earlier, during a statewide broadcast on Friday, the governor urged the citizens to massively participate in the weeklong exercise, “democracy is about the people our voters card guarantees your right to vote and be voted for”.
To underscore the importance of the exercise, the State Government declared Friday work free to allow civil servants and those in the private sector to collect their PVCs at their registration centres.
Amaechi emphasized government’s decision to make positive impact hence the guest to enlighten the people on the need to collect their voters card, adding that government will not relent to uphold and promote democratic principles since the exercise enables the citizens to elect erodible men and women and guarantees their input in governance.
He charged INEC to ensure that the exercise was conducted in a free and fair atmosphere to make sure that, “no eligible voter is denial his or right to vote”.