Cross River Electoral Body Announces Deadline For Local Government Elections In October

Cross River Electoral Body Announces Deadline For Local Government Elections In October

The Chairman of the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission, Dr. Ekong Boco, has announced that the process for conducting local government elections will commence on Wednesday, September 25, 2024…….CONTINUE READING 

During a meeting with the leadership of all political parties in his office, Boco outlined that party primaries, along with the resolution of any disputes arising from these primaries, will take place until October 25, 2024. He stated, “All processes will conclude on October 25, 2024, which will also mark the end of political campaigns across all local government areas in the state. The local government elections are scheduled for October 26, 2024.”

Boco emphasized the importance of a fair electoral environment, assuring that all registered political parties would be treated equitably. He stressed, “Election is not war. We aim to conduct a peaceful election, as a credible and acceptable electoral process requires a harmonious atmosphere.”

All political parties expressed their commitment to actively participating in the upcoming elections, acknowledging that they are long overdue. However, the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Venatius Ikem, indicated that they considered boycotting the election due to concerns over the expedited amendment of the law, the sudden announcement of the election timetable, and perceived adjustments favoring the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He stated, “We’d rather participate in protest because to boycott is a language of defeat.”

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Labour Party Caretaker Committee, John Ushie, and Anthony Bissong from the Young Progressives Party both affirmed their readiness for the elections, recognizing that they were long overdue. Governor Bassey Otu has already signed the amended Cross River Electoral Law, which establishes a four-year tenure for elected local government officials.