The Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI), an accredited observer organisation, has been monitoring the ongoing Local Government elections in Kwara State.
In a statement signed by its Communications Director, Sanni Alausa-Issa, and released to newsmen in Ilorin. The initiative also commended the effort of Electoral body for the efforts they have shown during the polls so far.
Read full Text below:
While commending the efforts of the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC) in conducting the elections, we have observed significant delays in many Local Government Areas.
As at 9AM, voting is yet to commence at over 80% of polling units across Kwara State as KWASIEC officials were not available to commence the process.
While we commend the efforts of KWASIEC in planning this election, this is a significant logistics failure that should not have happened
In light of these developments, we urge KWASIEC to consider extending the voting hours to ensure that all eligible voters can exercise their franchise. This extension would cover for the time lost and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
We call on KWASIEC to:
1. Extend voting hours by at least 2-3 hours to accommodate voters who have been unable to cast their ballots.
2. Provide additional voting materials and personnel to affected polling units.
3. Ensure that all voters in queues before the closing time are allowed to vote.
We also call on the electorate to remain calm, patient, and peaceful, and to report any incident(s) or concerns to our Situation Room via +2348108302763.
BBYDI remains committed to promoting transparent, free, and fair elections in Kwara State.