\Four days before the October 5, 2024 local government elections in Akwa Ibom State, a group called Centre for Human Rights Accountability Network (CHRAN) got promises from those in charge of the elections, police, and others to make sure the elections are peaceful, fair, and free.
This meeting happened at CHRAN’s office in Uyo. They called it “Towards a Free, Fair, and Credible 2024 Local Government Election in Akwa Ibom State.” They worked together with the people in charge of the elections, AKISIEC.
CHRAN’s leader, Otuekong Franklyn I song, explained why they had this meeting. He wants to help make sure the elections are honest. So, they brought together all important people, including candidates from 12 political parties.
He said good leadership is very important now, especially since local governments will have more money to spend. He urged people to choose honest candidates and asked AKISIEC to be fair to everyone.
He said, “As a group that cares about justice, we want everyone to work together. That’s why we invited security agencies and the 12 political parties to talk.
“Because the president and attorney general said local governments will get more funds, even commissioners are resigning to run for these positions. We must focus on local government so the state government has less work.”
During an interview, Usenobong Akpabio said, until local governments can run elections on their own, the situation will remain the same. He believes things will change when local governments have their own election bodies. He urged people to hold their local leaders accountable.
He said, “I think this election will be like any other. The state is preparing its party, PDP, for the election, while other parties just exist. I believe someday local governments will have their own election body. Then, everything will be better, and people should hold their local leaders responsible.”
Obonganwan Dora Ebong, a commissioner, told voters to choose good candidates, not focus on political parties. She emphasized that anyone who wants power for selfish reasons should not be elected.
She said the peace in Akwa Ibom depends a lot on AKISIEC and urged them to act fairly. She said, “The peace of this state is in AKISIEC’s hands. They should do the right thing. It’s not good when you spend all day at the polling station and don’t see any ballot papers. Then, you suddenly hear results being announced.”
In response, Elder Aniedi Ikoiwak from AKISIEC promised to be fair to all parties. He told candidates to campaign up until October 3rd, as the elections will be on October 5th.
The CHRAN Chairman added that a peace agreement will be signed at the AKISIEC office with all 12 political parties and their candidates present.