Observers Declare Cross River Polls Free, Fair, Credible

Cross River State REC, Dr. Frankland

A Coalition of Domestic Observers who were in Cross River state to monitor the 2019 general elections have given a clean bill of health to the exercises, saying they were free, fair and credible.

The Coalition's assessment was contained in a report on the elections it released on Monday.

The report was signed by Innuabeye Emmanuel Samuel, leader of the observers.

The body commended the state governor, Professor Ben Ayade for " providing security and ensuring level playing ground for the electorates and other contestants in the governorship election despite being a candidate too.”

It also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state for being above board.

“The Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr B. Frankland maintained his neutrality all through the electoral process and ensured that everything was in accordance to the electoral guidelines", the report said.

The report noted that Cross River voters exhibited decorum and orderliness during the conduct of the elections.

"Their patience at the polling units, waiting in long queues to ensure that they cast their votes peacefully is highly commendable.”

Cross River, according to the report, was largely peaceful during the elections except for minor isolated incidents in Boki, Ikom, Obubra and Etung areas which were immediately contained by security agencies.

The Coalition of Domestic Observers called on INEC to ensure that for future elections matured ad hoc staff were recruited and  adequately trained.

The body also recommended that voters education be given serious attention.