In preparation for the upcoming October 9 Local Government Election, the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) has successfully trained 350 Ward Technical Support Staff to assist Presiding Officers with the newly introduced Voter Verification System (VVS). The training took place at the Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), located near Crispan Hotel, off Old Airport Junction, Rayfield Road, Jos, Plateau State.

The VVS, a technology designed to verify voter identity, will be deployed for the first time in Plateau State during the election. This initiative aims to ensure transparency and credibility in the election process by verifying that only registered voters cast their ballots.

During the event, PLASIEC Chairman Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak emphasized the importance of the new system, stating, “We are introducing this VVS to ensure that the person who wants to vote is the actual registered voter. INEC has done something similar with BVAS, but we find this system simpler and more adaptable to our local context, working both online and offline.”

Cishak urged the support staff to approach their duties with dedication, adding, “Local government elections are critical because people live in local governments, not just in the state. If we get it right at this level, we can set an example for other states. We ask that you take this work seriously, as if you are doing it unto God.”

One of the participants, Belong Beatrice Duwong, expressed optimism about the new system. “I’m pleased to be part of the WARDTECH training. This new technology will ensure free, fair, and credible elections, preventing vote-buying and underage voting,” she said.

Caleb Bulus N., a facilitator at the training, praised PLASIEC’s bold move to enhance the election process. “This app makes a significant upgrade for PLASIEC. I believe this system will help deliver the free and fair election the governor is aiming for.”

The training concluded with an interactive session where participants engaged in questions and answers, further solidifying their understanding of the VVS and their roles in the upcoming election.