Sunday Nkama
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Thursday held a pivotal Town Hall Meeting in Afikpo Local Government Area, bringing together stakeholders to sensitize them on the ongoing nationwide continuous voter registration exercise.
The meeting, attended by key community leaders, public officers, religious leaders, political parties, town union executives, civil society organizations, the women Groups, youth Presidents, Teachers and the LGA staff, aimed to encourage eligible voters to register for their Voter Cards during this Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of Afikpo Local Government Area, NWACHI, Timothy A. U, urged residents, particularly those who have attained the age of 18, to seize the opportunity provided by INEC to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
The Chairman who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Apostle (Dr.) Uduma Peter Agha, emphasized that the voter’s card is a powerful tool that empowers citizens to choose their leaders and determine the democratic direction of the country.
The Electoral Officer, INEC Afikpo LGA, represented by the Assistant Electoral Officer, Ogbu Samuel, informed stakeholders that INEC has commenced a nationwide continuous voter registration exercise.He urged the public to shun apathy and register in large numbers, emphasizing the importance of participating in the democratic process.
Adding his Voice, the Registration Officer,Mr. Idoko Sunday further disclosed that newly eligible voters who have turned 18 years old can now register while existing voters who lost their PVCs or have defaced cards, or have any issue with their Cards, can apply for new ones. He called for massive turn up of those categories of people for registration to enable them vote in the next elections and subsequent ones
The Town Hall Meeting was a resounding success, serving as a platform for stakeholders to engage with INEC officials and learn more about the voter registration process. Stakeholders, including traditional rulers, councilors, and town union presidents, pledged to mobilize their people to participate actively in the voter registration exercise.