Benue 2024 LG elections: Commissioner hails process as free, fair as PDP continues to cry

The Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Hon Mathew Abo, has praised the 2024 Local Government elections in Benue State for chairmanship and councillorship aspirants as free and fair.

During a media interaction at his polling unit at LGEA Primary School Ngira in Kendev Council Ward, Commissioner Abo described the elections as the most peaceful in the state’s history.

He stated, “As you can see, everybody is happy. This has never happened before in the history of Benue State. People are coming out massively to vote. It is the first time in the history of the state.”

Speaking on security, Abo noted that the high voter turnout reflected the relative peace in Ukum Local Government Area. However, he added that some polling units had to be temporarily relocated to Zaki-Biam for safety reasons.

The Commissioner commended officials of the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC), security operatives, party agents, and other relevant stakeholders for their roles in monitoring the voting process.

Earlier, the Electoral Officer for Ukum LGA, Hon. John Ikyenge, confirmed that all necessary election materials were received promptly and without any issues.

Hon. Jonathan Modi, the APC Chairmanship Candidate, expressed his readiness to accept the results of the elections, regardless of the outcome. Similarly, Hon. Terseer Abur, representing the PDP Ukum flagbearer, affirmed confidence in the electoral process and stated that his party would accept the results in good faith.

Other notable figures who participated in the elections included Hon. Terese Ninga, Director General of Agricultural Development and Mechanization; Hon. Barr. Terngu Gwanger, Personal Senior Assistant to the Governor on Land and Survey; Hon. Richard Mzugweve, Acting Youth Leader of the Benue APC; and Hon. Aba Aondo Aba, a two-time Local Government Secretary.