Benue State Government has vowed to do everything humanly possible to resist any form of rigging in the forthcoming general elections in the state.
Governor Samuel Ortom stated this on Moday, in Makurdi at the swearing-in of the reconstituted members of the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission, BSIEC.
Ortom who spoke through his deputy, Mr. Benson Abounu explained that the inauguration of the Commission was a further demonstration of his administration’s determination and resolve to deepen democracy through free and fair elections.
“Our administration which believes in the rule of law and due process is taking this bold step to reconstitute the commission in our belief that this is one of the best ways to promote democracy in our state.”
He said the selection of members of the Commission was purely on merit and integrity and urged them to put measures in place quickly to commence the process of Local Government elections.
“Our zero tolerance for corruption is non negotiable. We urge you not to compromise your integrity and not to divert resources deployed to the provision of services for the people into personal use.
“Anyone who tempts our resolve on this will have himself or herself to blame.
Ortom further charged the team to conduct transparent, credible, free and fair local government elections saying he will respect the verdict of the people.
“The integrity of our electoral process and its reputation depends on your credibility too.
“You must live above board and be seen to be transparent in all your dealings with candidates and the political parties. It is in your court to ensure that every vote counts.
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“Anyone who fails in an election and is declared a winner is in itself corruption. No one who indulges in electoral fraud will be allowed to go scot free in Benue State.”
He acknowledged the challenges facing the commission and pledged to support the new team within its lean financial resources to encourage them to succeed in delivering on their mandate.
Speaking, the BSIEC Chairman, Dr Tersoo Loko, thanked the state government for finding members of the commission worthy to serve in that capacity saying “We will not disappoint the state.”
He pledged to conduct the most credible, free and fair elections ever witnessed in the life of Benue local governments.
He promised to work with all stakeholders to ensure that local government elections in Benue were transparent and fair to all those involved.
Dr Loko was inaugurated alongside Mr. Mannaseh Seiki as Secretary with eight others as members.
