The Benue State Government on Thursday declared Friday, October 4, 2024, as a work-free day.
News About Nigeria reports that the Work-Free Day is due to the local government election, which will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024.
Speaking in a statement, Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, explained that the work-free day is to allow the electorate to travel to their respective local government areas to exercise their franchise.
He also emphasised the importance of “active participation in the electoral process” and encouraged all citizens to take advantage of this work-free day to exercise their civic duty.
The governor also expressed confidence that, with the right commitment and participation, the elections would be conducted smoothly and fairly.
Alia further urged all public and private sector organisations to support the initiative by allowing their employees to do likewise.
He charged the citizens to prioritise peaceful conduct and collaboration during the elections, reinforcing the need for unity and cooperation among all parties involved.
The Governor also calls for a peaceful election in all the LGAs, tasking the candidates and their supporters to ensure that they abide by the rule of law.
He also noted that the state government is confident in the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission to conduct the election in a free and fair manner.
Alia purged the people to come out in their mass to vote for their choice of candidate, assuring that their votes would count.
He also assured that security agencies will be on ground in all the LGAs in the state to ensure a seamless electoral process.
