‘Disregard Rumours Of Violence On Plateau’

The National Orientation Agency [NOA], has appealed to the electorate to disregard rumors of impending violence during the general elections which begins on Saturday.

The Plateau State director of the Agency, Bulus Dabit made the appeal on Thursday at a youth center, in Pankshin during a one day public enlightenment forum for the electorate.

Represented by a staff, Mrs. Kamen Pam-Hworo, Dabit promised that the 2011 elections would be a departure from previous elections which had enormous challenges.

“I want to promise the electorate that this year’s elections will be free and fair, with no trace of violence, the electorate should disregard rumors of violence, as security measures have been put in place to ensure a hitch free exercise.

He said from the reports available, all polling units will be manned by different shades of security operatives to guard and prevent any form of crisis.

He advised people to be at the polling centres on time for accreditation and wait to guard their votes after the elections.

In an address, The Pankshin District Head, Monday Gorkum, explained that intensive efforts have been made to sensitize the people on performing their civic duty and maintaining peace, before, during and after the elections.

“As traditional rulers, we have tried our best in creating awareness for people to make the best out of the elections”.

He said that, “Pankshin people are not known for violence, and so we should expect peaceful polls”.

The Divisional police officer, ASP Dennis Hemberga, warned that, the police will deal decisively with anyone caught fomenting trouble during the elections.

“We have said it several times that we will not accept any form of trouble from anyone, as we are equal to the task of maintain peace.”He noted.

Earlier the council’s chairman, Mr. Yohanna Dukas, commended INEC and NOA for ensuring that, the 2011 polls is conducted under a peaceful atmosphere.

NAN reports that , security agencies , district heads , residents of Pankshin attended the one day forum.