Posted by By Chidi Nkwopara on
Supporters of embattled Senator Ifeanyi Araraume were yesterday assured by Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr. Austin N. Okojie, that contrary to their fear, he is still in contention for the gubernatorial polls in the state.
Supporters of embattled Senator Ifeanyi Araraume were yesterday assured by Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr. Austin N. Okojie, that contrary to their fear, he is still in contention for the gubernatorial polls in the state.
Okojie stated this while reading out the names of the contestants during a briefing in Owerri, organised by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party chieftains and their flagbearers for the different elective positions, barely a few hours to the April 14 polls.
'What I have read out represents the list of gubernatorial candidates sent to us from our head office in Abuja. I do not have any other directive to the contrary", the REC said.
He urged the contestants not to bring in touts, thugs and miscreants to the polling centres as their agents, pointing out that INEC and the security agents will not hesitate to deal ruthlessly with such individuals if found around the polling areas.
'We already have security reports that some people have concluded arrangements to masquerade as police officers in uniform during the general elections. They are advised to retrace their steps in their own interest", Okojie said.
The Resident Commissioner further warned that the system INEC has adopted does not accommodate multiple voting, and appealed to the citizenry to remain peaceful during and after the polls.
'There is no tension in Imo State. I am aware that there are few internal wranglings that have been reported in one or two political parties and I am positive that this does not translate to Imo State being under siege or tension soaked", Mr. Okojie reasoned.
Answering a question, the Commissioner said that INEC does not have the power to extend the voting time in accordance with the dictates of the Electoral Act but however said that all those who were at the polling centre before the closing time would be allowed to vote.