By Onwa Ekor
The Cross River Independent Electoral Commission, CROSIEC, has charged newly appointed electoral officers to remain neutral and professional in the discharge of their duties ahead of the forthcoming local government elections.
Speaking during a training programme for newly appointed Electoral Officers, Assistant Electoral Officers and Store Officers, CROSIEC Secretary, Lawrence Edu, said neutrality is non-negotiable for credible elections.
“You are expected to remain neutral. You must not support any political party or candidate while performing your official duties,” Edu said.
He commended the governor, Prince Bassey Otu, for his efforts to strengthen the electoral system in the state.
Edu also urged the officers to properly manage and protect official records, describing them as public assets that must not be treated as personal property.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Cross River Civil Service Commission, Sir Maurice Effiwat, said the training was critical for professional development.
“Properly trained personnel are better equipped to deliver effective public service,” he said, urging the officers to apply the knowledge acquired to their assignments.
The State Head of Service, Bassey Orok, represented by Ignatius Edu, reminded the officials that they are civil servants and not politicians.
“You must demonstrate discipline, professionalism and impartiality. All political parties, candidates and citizens must be treated equally,” he said.
Earlier, CROSIEC Chairman, Mr. Ekong Edet, described the training as a vital step in preparing personnel for higher responsibilities.
“Training helps employees acquire new skills, improve morale and increase productivity,” Edet said.
He added that the programme was designed to familiarise participants with administrative procedures, election processes and operational practices.
Edet listed the Commission’s achievements under his leadership to include the renovation of the CROSIEC headquarters, restoration of water supply, stabilisation of electricity and other infrastructural upgrades.
He also cited the successful conduct of the 2024 Local Government Council Elections in the state and the recruitment of 82 new staff members to strengthen the Commission’s workforce.
The training focused on administrative procedures, election management and contemporary issues in the conduct of local government elections in the state.
