CALABAR – In a significant stride towards consolidating free, fair, and credible local government elections, the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) has emerged as a beacon of hope for grassroots democracy. Tasked with the critical mandate of conducting, organising, and supervising local government elections, CROSIEC is not only central to electoral processes but also plays a pivotal role in voter education, stakeholder outreach, and institutional reforms aimed at bolstering electoral integrity.
A Visionary Leadership
At the helm of this transformative journey is Dr Ekong Boco, whose tenure as Chairman has been marked by bold initiatives and a commitment to excellence. Recognising that an efficient, transparent, and credible electoral body is the bedrock of democracy, Dr Boco has taken significant steps to overhaul the commission’s operations, making it better equipped to meet the evolving demands of local governance.
Infrastructure and Efficiency: The Cornerstones of Reform
One of Dr Boco’s earliest and most impactful initiatives was the improvement of the CROSIEC headquarters. Acknowledging that a conducive working environment is essential for operational efficiency, he spearheaded a comprehensive renovation of the office buildings. The upgrade has not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the premises but has also fostered a more efficient, home-like atmosphere for the staff.
Key infrastructural improvements include:
- Central Store Setup: Designed to reduce congestion and optimise administrative workflows.
- Staff Parking Lot Construction: Enhancing the tidiness and organisation of the commission’s environment.
- Individual Office Toilets: A stark contrast to the previous shared facilities, this change underscores a commitment to staff dignity and comfort.
- Concrete Road Development: Facilitating smooth movement within the premises, this new road ensures seamless access for both staff and visitors.
These developments reflect Dr Boco’s long-term vision for institutional strengthening and sustainability, ensuring that CROSIEC is well-prepared to deliver on its mandate with greater efficiency.
Prioritising Employee Welfare
Beyond the physical transformation of CROSIEC’s infrastructure, Dr Boco has consistently championed the welfare of the commission’s employees. Understanding that a motivated and well-supported workforce is crucial to executing successful elections, he proactively engaged with the state government to secure timely payment of salaries for newly employed civil servants. Although the Accountant General’s office oversees salary disbursements, Dr Boco’s advocacy underscores his commitment to the staff’s well-being and professional growth.
Overcoming Distractions and Misinformation
In any transformative journey, challenges are inevitable. Recently, detractors have attempted to derail progress by circulating misinformation and unfounded allegations. Claims about the existence of a commission-owned server and unverified reports of salary delays have emerged, aimed at undermining the commission’s achievements. However, such distractions do little to mask the palpable improvements and the robust reforms being implemented under Dr Boco’s leadership.
This is a critical juncture for media professionals. Responsible journalism calls for diligent fact-checking and objective analysis, avoiding sensationalism that misleads the public and hampers the momentum of genuine reform efforts. It is incumbent upon the press to uphold ethical standards and support the initiatives that drive progress in public institutions.
Governor Bassey Otu’s Visionary Appointment
No discussion on the current evolution of CROSIEC would be complete without acknowledging the role of Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu. His forward-thinking decision to appoint Dr Boco underscores a broader agenda of competence, innovation, and progress in the state electoral commission. Governor Otu’s administration is deeply committed to people-centred policies and infrastructural renewal, ensuring that the citizens of Cross River State benefit from sustainable and transparent leadership.
The governor’s unwavering support for CROSIEC’s reforms speaks volumes about his dedication to transparency, accountability, and electoral integrity. His action in appointing capable leaders such as Dr Boco is a clear testament to his vision for a progressive and thriving Cross River State, where democratic principles are not only upheld but continuously strengthened.
Conclusion
The ongoing revolution within CROSIEC is more than an administrative overhaul—it is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and a commitment to democratic ideals. With Dr Ekong Boco steering the commission towards efficiency, transparency, and professionalism, and with the strong backing of Governor Bassey Otu’s people-centred policies, Cross River State is well-positioned to enjoy a future marked by robust electoral integrity and enhanced local governance.
As stakeholders continue to rally behind these transformative efforts, the media and the public alike must stay informed and support progress over distraction. The path to a more democratic, accountable, and inclusive future is clear—and it begins at the grassroots level with the dedicated work of institutions like CROSIEC.
