The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers State, Prof. Gabriel Yomere, has characterized the ongoing bye-election in the state as tranquil and orderly.
Yomere expressed this viewpoint while addressing journalists during a visit to evaluate voting activities in certain wards, specifically wards 8 and 3 in Khana constituency II, in Rivers.
The bye-election for the state House of Assembly Constituencies is taking place in Ahoada East and Khana within Rivers.
He noted that the process had been carried out without any incidents of violence, calling this development commendable and reassuring.
Regarding the voter apathy noted in some regions, Yomere asserted that INEC should not be held accountable, emphasizing that the commission met its obligations by conducting sufficient publicity and making necessary preparations prior to the election.
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Yomere voiced his worries about the lack of voter engagement, but praised the initiatives undertaken by INEC and civil society groups to raise voter awareness prior to the election.
“We made it our mission to visit each local council, urging traditional leaders, politicians, and civil society organizations to motivate voters,” he stated.
Yomere recommended that electoral officers at polling stations ensure that the voting procedures are wrapped up by 2:30 p.m., as per the commission’s regulations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the INEC REC was present to observe the election alongside INEC National Commissioner Rhoda Gumus and other officials from INEC.
Some party representatives from the APC and AA who spoke to NAN described the election process as efficient and transparent.
