By Olu Fanwo
All seem set for the October 19 Local Government elections in Kogi State as the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC), has revealed that all arrangements have been concluded for a hitch free exercise.
The Commission Chairman, Mr. Mamman Nda Eri, at a press briefing, Wednesday, announced that the Commission was go to good and it is eager to deliver to the state an election that will be credible.
Mr. Eri, while disclosing that the Inter Party Advisory council (IPAC), had successfully waded into the crisis of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), said the Commission would abide with the position of IPAC on the matter .
The SIEC Boss revealed further that 19 political parties will be participating in the elections and assured that votes would count as the Commission, he promised, would provide level playing field for all parties.
On the preparedness of the Commission, he hinted that efforts are being put in place to ensure early distribution of electoral materials, while adequate security arrangements have also be made ahead of the exercise.
On whether BVAS will be deployed for the election, he ruled out the possibility of doing so, noting that it is capital intensive.
He revealed further that budgetary provision for the election is inadequate, adding that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has since stopped assisting the Commission with materials, such as jackets, ballot boxes, cubicles and other non sensitive materials.
The SIEC Boss also disclosed that KONGONET has been saddled with the responsibility of coordinating observers and monitors during the election, adding also that the Commission would be holding strategic security meeting tomorrow, Thursday.