The government announced the election schedule during a stakeholders’ meeting organized by the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) in Uyo, on Tuesday.
The governor of the state, Umo Eno who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong said that those elected as council chairman will be sworn-in on December 7, in adherence to the electoral plan of the state.
He said: “We are all aware that the governor assumed office May 29 last year and because of the shortness of time between May and December, he was unable to conduct the local government elections which is why we have caretaker committees manning the local governments.
“I know how he has pressurised the AKISIEC to have the local government elections. Nothing stops us from having the elections this year because Akwa Ibom State and His Excellency do not want to be counted among those running caretaker committees.”
The AKISIEC chairman, Aniedi Ikoiwak promised a free, fair, credible, and peaceful election for all the political parties involved.
He said: “Given the critical importance of human and material security during elections, the Commission will take very practical measures to ensure there is adequate security before, during and after the local government elections.”
According to the election timetable, political parties are expected to conduct primaries between July 22 and August 26, while campaigns and rallies will start from August 26.