Cross River Task INEC On Electoral Reforms
Cross River state government has government the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) on electoral reforms to help mitigate the adverse effects of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Speaking during a familiarity visit to her office Wednesday by the newly deployed REC Commissioner to the state, Dr Betta Edu, State Commissioner for Health, drew the Commission attention on the need to digitise Nigeria’s electoral processes so as to reduce body contacts during voting with a view to taming the current Scotch or any other outbreak in the foreseeable future. Dr Edu premised her postulation on the forthcoming Senatorial bye-election in Northern Cross River to fill the vacuum created by Sen Rose Oko’s demise.
“I will wish to use this medium to solicit your Commissions cooperation to see that our Electoral Processes can be Digitalize, avoid gathering, making use of infrared thermometers for screening, provide hand washing items as well as hand sanitizers and encourage electorate to use mask; as this will help reduce the risk associated with conducting an Election during outbreak of COVID-19 or other pandemics even though we’re not praying for any future occurrences of such.
“There’s going to be a great working relationship between the health Ministry and INEC especially as we approach the northern senatorial elections where we must monitor full compliance to the preventive measures to Gaurd against Corona Virus spread in our state.
“We’re pleased to have you sent to our State and I can ssure you of our unflinching support and synergy all through your stay”.
In his response, Dr Hart Emmanuel, the State Residents Electoral Commissioner assured Dr Edu and state of synergy and working relationship between his Agency and her Ministry including the Commission’s preparedness to conduct the election in accordance with the NCDC guidelines.
“We will work with your team to achieve our mandate while keeping Cross Riverians safe”.
Dr Hart thanked the Health Commissioner for a warm reception inspite of her very busy schedule.
Also present at the visit are Barr Takim Asu, Permanent Secretary of the Cross River Ministry of Health, Dr Iwara Iwara, Director of Public Health, Mr Hezekiah Monday, INEC Head of Operations, Mr Tonye Dudefia, INEC Head of ICT, Mr Kingsley Nsa INEC protocol officer and other dignitaries.