As Rivers people finally head to the polls on Saturday, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) says it has put measures in place to ensure that every vote counts.
The Chairman of the commission, Michaels Odey, gave the assurance in an interview with Nigeria Info on Friday. Odey said the RSIEC will be impartial.
He also said his team will ensure the process aligns with RSIEC laws.
"I assure you that RISEC will remain impartial, transparent, and professional in discharging its mandate," he said.
"We have put mechanisms in place to ensure that every vote counts and that the results declared reflect the genuine will of the people of River State.
"Training has been conducted for all categories of electoral staff. The voters' register has been published and is ready for use. We have also engaged in broad consultations with political parties, civil society organizations, security agencies, and community stakeholders to ensure credibility and inclusivity."
Dr. Odey urged voters to exercise their civic rights to demonstrate the strength of democracy, while appealing to politicians to conduct themselves peacefully during Saturday’s local government election.
"We have received assurances from the security agencies that adequate personnel have been deployed across the 23 local government areas to guarantee the safety of voters, election officials, and materials.
"I appeal to all political actors, candidates, and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with the law. The power to choose belongs solely to the electorate, and no one must attempt to subvert that will through violence or intimidation."
Saturday's vote will see residents choose the leaders of Rivers' 23 local government areas. The police declared an 18-hour curfew, which takes effect from midnight to 6 p.m. on election day.
