The Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) has officially cleared 12 political parties to participate in the upcoming local government elections, scheduled for October 5, 2024. This announcement was made by the Commission’s Chairman, Mr. Aniedi Ikoiwak, during a media briefing at the AKISIEC headquarters in Uyo, where he emphasized the commission’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election.
Ikoiwak revealed that after thorough consultations with all political parties in the state, 12 of them successfully submitted the names of their candidates and returned their nomination forms, confirming their participation in the forthcoming elections. He highlighted the positive relationship between the commission and the political parties, stating, “From our first interactions, we had 19 political parties with us. 12 of them have now submitted names of their candidates and returned their nomination forms.”
In preparation for the elections, the commission has finalized arrangements for the deployment of over 14,000 security personnel across the state’s 4,353 polling units and 369 wards, spanning all 31 local government areas. This strategic security measure was made possible through the Commission’s Consultative Committee Meeting on Election Security, which includes the Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State Command and other top security officials.
Furthermore, Mr. Ikoiwak disclosed that the commission has received over 17,000 applications from individuals seeking to serve as ad-hoc staff during the elections. However, after a rigorous screening process, only between 12,000 and 13,000 applicants will be selected to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
With the support of key stakeholders and the timely release of funds by Governor Umo Eno, Ikoiwak expressed confidence that the upcoming local government elections will truly reflect the wishes and aspirations of the people of Akwa Ibom State.
