PLASIEC Engages Election Observers Ahead of October 9th 2024 Plateau State Local Government Council Elections

With preparations in full swing for the 2024 Local Government Council Elections in Plateau State, the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) hosted an interactive session on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at Fox Hotel, Jos. The session brought together local and international election observers, civil society organizations, and social advocacy groups, with the goal of providing updates on the commission’s level of preparedness for the elections scheduled for October 9, 2024.

A total of 11 political parties will be participating in the much-anticipated elections.In his keynote address, PLASIEC Chairman, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, warmly welcomed the attendees, emphasizing Plateau State’s open and inclusive electoral environment. He expressed optimism that the involvement of the election observers would inspire public confidence in the election process, which has been closely watched both domestically and internationally.

Hon. Cishak highlighted significant milestones achieved since his appointment on June 10, 2024, detailing improvements made within PLASIEC to ensure smooth and credible elections. “In just three months, we have overhauled our administrative and operational systems,” he said. He also noted the unprecedented participation of 11 political parties in the elections.

“For the first time in Plateau State’s history, we have 11 political parties vying for seats. This is a clear endorsement of our efforts to make the electoral process more inclusive, reflecting the state’s unique political landscape.” A key innovation introduced by PLASIEC is a new voter verification system, designed to include displaced persons in the electoral process. Internally displaced persons (IDPs), who often lack access to Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), will now be able to vote using their Voter Identification Numbers (VINs). “With this system, we require only your VIN. Once verified, you can participate in the election,” Cishak explained.

This is seen as a significant step toward greater voter inclusivity, particularly for vulnerable populations.Despite resource limitations, PLASIEC has also adopted a “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) model, allowing election personnel to use their personal smartphones for certain election-related tasks.

To bolster the integrity of the system, PLASIEC has partnered with state tertiary institutions, enlisting students to assist with the election process. “Students are not only accountable but also traceable, making them ideal partners in maintaining the integrity of our electoral process,” Cishak added.

Addressing the observers, Cishak encouraged constructive feedback and candid criticism, underscoring the commission’s commitment to serving the people of Plateau State. “We are here for the people, not ourselves. Your feedback is critical to ensuring that we build a robust and transparent electoral system,” he remarked.

Hon. Deborah Plangnan Akanle, Chairman of the Committee on Media and Volunteer Education at PLASIEC, also spoke, stressing the importance of honesty and accountability in the observation process. “As we carry out our duties, let us do so with integrity. There’s a higher power that everyone fears, and we must remember this. It costs more to be unfaithful than to be faithful,” she said. Akanle expressed hope that the election would serve as a model for future elections in the state and beyond.

The session also featured guidance on how to observe the election, facilitated by Gad Peter Shamaki and Mrs. Patricia Pam. Observers were provided with a checklist, specifically highlighting considerations for people living with disabilities. They were instructed to carefully document their observations and to report any breaches of the law to PLASIEC officials without interfering in the process. “You are deployed to local government areas to observe, not interfere. If you see any wrongdoing, report it, but do not disrupt the election process,” they advised.

In a bid to streamline its operations, PLASIEC also announced the launch of a new, fully functional website. The platform allows candidates to submit their nominations online, eliminating the need for physical visits to the commission’s office. This digital advancement is being hailed as a significant leap ahead of Nigeria’s national election body, with many seeing it as a model for other states.

As the session concluded, PLASIEC reiterated its commitment to conducting an election that is free, fair, and credible. The commission emphasized the importance of objective observation, calling on the observers to help ensure that the process is transparent and serves as a benchmark for future elections across Nigeria.