Plateau LG Election Update: PLASIEC Extends Voting Hours Amid Challenges

The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) has announced an extension of voting hours for the ongoing Local Government Elections. This decision comes in response to unexpected delays in the arrival of sensitive election materials at various polling units.

Koro Yakubu, PLASIEC’s Head of Media, explained that the extension was necessary to address these unforeseen challenges. In a statement released on Wednesday, she emphasized the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that all materials are properly deployed and that every eligible voter has the opportunity to exercise their right to vote.

“The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission PLASIEC hereby notifies the general public, political parties, candidates, and all stakeholders that the time for the conduct of the ongoing Local Government Elections in Plateau State has been extended,” Yakubu said.

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Originally scheduled from 8 AM to 3 PM, the voting period will now conclude at 5 PM in the affected areas. Yakubu reassured the public that PLASIEC is actively working to resolve any issues and ensure that every vote counts.

The statement also addressed the technical issues encountered with the Voter Accreditation Software in some polling units. Yakubu confirmed that these issues have been resolved, allowing Presiding Officers to revert to manual registration processes.

“Our technical team is working tirelessly to ensure that operations run smoothly,” she stated.

With eleven political parties and their candidates competing across over 300 wards in 17 Local Government Areas, the election has drawn significant attention. Major contenders include candidates from the Peoples Democratic Party, the All Progressives Congress, and the Labour Party.

Voter feedback has highlighted concerns regarding the malfunctioning Voter Verification System implemented by PLASIEC, with some voters expressing worries about potential disenfranchisement due to shortages of election materials. However, PLASIEC officials at polling units have reassured voters that every eligible individual will have the opportunity to participate in the election.