LG elections in Akwa-Ibom to hold October 26

By Dennis Udoma, Uyo

Baring any slightest change from now, Akwa Ibom State Government announced it’s readiness to conduct local government election on October 26.

Governor Umo Eno announced this yesterday in Uyo at a stakeholders meeting organized by the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC).

The Governor, who spoke through the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong presented the election plan to representatives of political parties and other stakeholders.

According to the Governor, “This event is a precursor to all of the electoral activities that will ultimately culminate to 2024 local government elections.

“We are all aware that the governor assumed office May 29 last year and because of the shortness of time between May and December he was not able to conduct the local government elections which is why we have caretaker committees manning the local governments.

“I know how he has pressurized the AKISIEC to have the local government elections. Nothing stops us from having the elections this year because Akwa Ibom State and His Excellency do not want to be counted among those running caretaker committees”.

Eno assured that elected council chairman will be sworn in on December 7 in compliance with the electoral plan of the state.

The timetable he said, political parties are expected to conduct their primaries between July 22nd and August 26th 2024 while commencement of campaigns is on August 26 among other activities.

Chairman of AKISIEC, Aniedi Ikoiwak assured political parties of adequate security and a free and fair elections.

Ikoiwak said, “Given the critical importance of human and material security during elections, the Commission will take very practical measures to ensure there is adequate security before, during and after this year’s elections”.