The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) yesterday extended voting by two hours in the state’s local government elections due to the late arrival of election materials in several polling units.
The extension was aimed at allowing eligible voters across the 17 local government areas to cast their votes.
The election, initially scheduled from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., was extended until 5 p.m. due to logistical challenges.
Our correspondent observed that voting started late at some polling units, with materials and ad-hoc staff arriving as late as 11 a.m., prompting complaints from party agents and voters.
PLASIEC acknowledged the challenges and issued a statement through its Head of Media, Koro E. Yakubu, confirming that the delays were being addressed. He also said the technical issues with the Voter Accreditation Software (VVS) were resolved, and manual voting registers were used in affected polling units.
Despite the extension, voter turnout was significantly low, our correspondent observed. In several polling units, PLASIEC officials waited for voters who largely stayed away.
Umar Abdullahi, a resident of Jos, explained his disinterest, saying, “Voting is a waste of time because the ruling party will win regardless.”
But Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who cast his vote in Mangu Local Government Area, described the election as peaceful and well-coordinated.
He commended PLASIEC for ensuring a credible process and observed enthusiastic voters heading to polling units.
This is as Senator Simon Bako Lalong, representing Plateau South and a former governor, urged voters to remain vigilant after casting their ballots.
Lalong, the leader of the main opposition, the All Progressives Congress (APC) acknowledged challenges, including the failure of card readers and a shortage of ballot papers in some areas, but expressed confidence in the fairness of the process. He called on PLASIEC to maintain neutrality.
His party, however, accused the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of attempting to rig the election. APC spokesman, Shittu Bamaiyi cited the late arrival of materials in areas like Jos North, Pankshin, and Shendam as part of a ploy to manipulate the outcome.
PLASIEC has denied these allegations, maintaining its commitment to a free and fair election.
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