The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) held a Post-Election Review Parley on December 11, 2024, at Odilin’s Events and Decorations in Jos. The session aimed to evaluate the October 9, 2024, local government elections and explore ways to improve future electoral processes. Representatives from political parties, media, civil society organizations, and government officials attended this crucial event.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, Chairman of PLASIEC, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He highlighted steps taken to ensure credible elections, including extensive stakeholder consultations, voter awareness campaigns, and the training of over 22,000 personnel. The election featured innovative measures, such as the pilot testing of PLASIEC Voter Verification System in selected wards, showcasing PLASIEC’s drive for modernization. Cishak invited constructive feedback to enhance future electoral practices, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in building an inclusive and transparent democracy.
Architect Samuel Jatau, Secretary to the Government of Plateau State, representing the state governor, lauded PLASIEC for conducting peaceful and credible elections. He emphasized the need for fairness and inclusivity, urging the recognition of popular candidates irrespective of political affiliations. Jatau encouraged stakeholders to use the review session as a platform to identify successes and address gaps, reiterating the state government’s support for strengthening democratic practices.
Dr. Raulatu Pieuna, Secretary of Plateau State Civil Society Organizations, addressed challenges encountered during the elections, such as inadequate training of ad hoc staff, voter apathy, and material shortages. She commended PLASIEC for introducing innovative solutions like the Voter Verification app for real-time results and high-quality materials. Dr. Pieuna urged improvements in staff training, material distribution, and continuous voter education to ensure better outcomes in future elections.
Latep Dabang, a key stakeholder, stressed the critical role of transparency in governance, especially in local elections. He highlighted issues like political manipulation and one-party dominance while advocating collaboration between governments and international bodies to foster democracy. Daban underscored the importance of integrity and perseverance, urging leaders to prioritize fairness and responsibility to build trust in electoral systems.
Barr. Pam Gyang Davou, Secretary of PLASIEC, provided insights into technical and logistical challenges, including system shutdowns, ad hoc staff mishaps, and payment delays. He assured attendees of the commission’s efforts to upgrade devices and streamline processes to prevent future disruptions.
The session concluded with interactive discussions, allowing participants to share perspectives and propose actionable solutions. Stakeholders commended PLASIEC’s commitment to continuous improvement and collaborative efforts, signaling a shared determination to enhance electoral integrity in Plateau State.
