The Independent National Electoral Commission on Thursday said it would deploy no fewer than 6200 card readers for the November 18 poll in Anambra State.
It assured the people that the machines would be in perfect condition.
The commission’s Director, Voter Education and Publicity, Oluwole Uzzi, gave the assurance during a voter education providers’ implementation meeting held in Awka, Anambra State.
He said about 5,000 card reader machines had been tested from the 6,200 anticipated for the election.
He added that INEC had recorded huge successes in the use of the card reader machine since it was introduced, assuring voters of a continued improvement in subsequent elections to guarantee more efficiency.
Uzzi said, “We will utilize the best card reader machines, not just for the Anambra election, but in subsequent elections, all to make sure the exercise is not only free and fair, but credible and acceptable to all.”
He said the commission had explored necessary measures in educating and sensitizing eligible voters on the importance of participating in the exercise, calling for support from other stakeholders.
Uzzi added, “All of us have the responsibilities, particularly the political parties who have the greater stake in voter turnout. On our own part, we would continue to explore all options to ensure a hitch-free poll.”
He expressed worry over unclaimed number of voter cards and appealed to those concerned to come for the cards in view of its importance in the exercise.
The State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Nkwachukwu Orji, described voter education as a critical segment of the electoral process, which would help to build confidence in the electorate to participate actively in the election.
Represented by the Administrative Secretary, Charles Mbanaja, Orji challenged stakeholders to come up with strategies to ensure a successful election.
The Director, National Orientation Agency in the state, Mike Ozoemena, as well as the state Coordinator, National Youth Service Corps, Ebenezer Olawole, in their separate remarks, assured INEC of their continued partnership with the commission for smooth conduct of the election.
Source: The Punch
