The Cross River State government has assured that adequate security has been provided to ensure no life or property is lost in the forthcoming general elections in the State.
Governor Ben Ayade, who briefed Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) in the State on their duties during the elections in Calabar, said arrangements have been concluded to ensure that there is no violence in any part of the State during elections.
Ayade, who spoke through the Permanent Secretary in charge of security in the State, Dr Alfred Mboto, said he was very particular about ensuring that all lives and property are protected.
He urged the officers not to compromise in their duties on the road, as this would undermine the efforts the state is making towards security.
“There is adequate preparation to ensuring that the state does not witness any form of violence. We are in top gear. We are on top of the matter. That is why from the area of transportation, I have come to awaken them to seeing that those who even try to disrupt elections, use vehicles to go to where they want. So if this sector becomes very effective, we can nip the problem in the bud. We can prevent them. From the state architecture of security, everything is in place. There would be no loss of life and property in Cross River. This administration does not want any person to die. It wants all to be happy and safe,” he said.
The Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer in the State, Engr Bepeh Paul, said they are fully prepared for their duty during the coming elections.
Bepeh, who is also the National Chairman of the Council of Vehicle Inspection Officers Forum, called on their officers across the country to carry out their duties diligently to ensure that a safe, free and hitch-free election is achieved.