A coalition of election observers, under the aegis of Nigeria Network for Peace and Good Governance, has commended the Plateau Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) for successfully conducting local government elections in the state.
James Shalom, spokesperson of group said this in a statement on Thurday in Jos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that PLASIEC on Saturday conducted election across the 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.
So far, results for five LGAs had arrived the collation centre at PLASIEC headquarters in Jos.
Shalom commended PLASIEC for ensuring a peaceful and transparent electoral process across the state.
He maintained that inspite of the initial challenges encountered, particularly the late arrival of election materials in some polling units, insisted that the exercise was generally credible.
”The electoral process from polling to the announcement of results at the ward levels were generally smooth, orderly and peaceful.
”The election was conducted without issues across key LGAs, including Pankshin, Mangu, Bokkos, Kanam, Jos North, Wase, Kanke, Jos South, Shendam, Quan’pan, among others.
”PLASIEC officials were professional, committed and transparent.
”The decision to extend voting hours in areas affected by the delay in arrival of materials gave room for more eligible voters to exercise their franchise,”he said.
Shalom, who noted the absence of violence, intimidation or result manipulation, commended the commitment of local communities who took ownership of the process to safeguard their votes and ensure the outcome reflected the people’s will.
He commended Gov. Caleb Mutfwang for ensuring a conducive atmosphere for the elections and equipping PLASIEC with adequate logistics toward a credible polls.
He noted that the election marked a significant milestone in Plateau’s democratic journey, adding that the polls reflected the true wishes of the people.(NAN)