An atmosphere of peace shrouds the re-run election in Plateau North. However, the absence of crucial election materials has led to disenfranchisement, triggering tension among residents eager to exercise their democratic rights.
The re-run election encompasses the Plateau North senatorial zone and the House of Representatives for the Jos North/Bassa federal constituency.
Interviews conducted by Media Talk Africa with residents in various Jos communities unveiled complaints about the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) disenfranchising numerous voters. Peter Gai, the Commissioner for Lands and Survey in the state, accused INEC of compromising the process. Gai highlighted instances where only senate papers were provided at polling units, while materials for the house of representatives were entirely absent. He stressed the need for transparency to ensure every eligible voter can participate in the democratic process.
At Polling Unit 012 in Kanong community, Jos North Local Government Area, INEC officials were notably absent, leaving voters unable to cast their ballots. Likewise, at Polling Unit 052 in Rock Haven community, residents refused to vote due to incomplete election materials, detaining the electoral official until the materials were provided.
Mrs Susan Adamu revealed that despite 1,728 registered voters at the polling unit, INEC only supplied 100 ballot papers for the House of Representatives poll, along with missing report sheets and other essential materials. Despite efforts to reach INEC for assistance, there was no response, prompting residents to insist on the completion of materials before casting their votes.
Miss Hannah Anthony, the polling agent, shared that the electoral officer for the LGA had instructed her to commence the election with the promise of delivering the remaining materials later. However, the community demanded all materials be present before voting, expressing frustration over the unresponsive nature of the electoral officer.
As of the report’s filing, the issues pertaining to the absence of election materials remain unaddressed.
