by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has reassured the public that their votes would count, while expressing satisfaction with the efficiency of the process.
He said he is pleased to have casted his vote, stressing that the process is smooth and much faster than the BVAS machines used in general elections.
He was speaking to journalists shortly after casting his vote at his home town, Pushit 1 polling unit, Ampang West in Mangu local government area of Plateau State on Wednesday.
He expressed confidence that the large turnout of voters would be swiftly managed, given that accreditation and voting were proceeding simultaneously without hitches.
According to him, due to the peaceful nature of the exercise and the maturity displayed by voters, security personnel have had little to do, while noting the transparency of the election process.
The governor further emphasized the need for electoral systems to continually evolve, adding that, “The smoothness of this election has taught me that we must remain adaptable regarding technological platforms for elections.
“Accreditation is critical to the integrity of any election. Once it is done seamlessly, and people are confident that their votes will count. Our electoral process will continue to grow with integrity,” he stated.
He commended the conduct of the October 9 Local Government elections in the state, describing it as peaceful and well-coordinated.
He also commanded the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) for ensuring a seamless electoral process, designed to deliver free, fair, and credible elections.
Gov Mutfwang noted that, “The exercise has commenced in earnest. As I drove from Jos through Barkin-Ladi to Mangu, I observed enthusiastic voters heading to their polling units to cast their votes.”
Our correspondent observed that the turnout was very impressive and calm without any tension or fear of breakdown of law and order.
Nevertheless, in some polling units visited by our correspondent there were some little hitches – some no stamp, and materials arrived late.