…Group warns low turnout at INEC centres, offers transport support for riverine communities
CALABAR — The Coalition of Cross River State Youths (COCRISY) has urged young people across the state to go out en masse and collect their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs), warning that without it, they have no voice in determining the future of the state.
The Director General, Etem Okimba, who made the call in a press release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, David Adrian Godwin, also assured that the group would provide logistical support for youths in riverine and hard-to-reach communities to ensure no one is disenfranchised due to distance or cost.
COCRISY said it had observed with concern the low turnout of young people at various INEC collection centres across the 18 Local Government Areas of the state.
“We cannot afford to be on social media lamenting bad governance while we neglect the very process that enthrones good governance,” Okimba said. “We must move from online activism to ballot activism.”
…Logistics Support for Riverine Communities
The group acknowledged the economic hardship and logistical challenges that may hinder some youths, especially those in riverine and hard-to-reach communities, from participating in the PVC collection exercise.
Consequently, COCRISY said it was putting modalities in place to assist in logistics where imperative, including cluster mobilisation and transportation support for youths in such areas.
The group said it would work closely with youth leaders, student union bodies, community youth councils, and voluntary groups across the three senatorial districts to ensure no young CrossRiverian is disenfranchised.
…Call for Stakeholder Support
COCRISY urged all stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and political actors, to support the civic mobilisation drive.
“This is not about party, it is about Cross River State,” the group said.
It also called on all CrossRiverians who have attained the voting age of 18 and above and have registered to immediately visit the nearest INEC office or designated PVC collection centre.
“The time to act is now. Let us go and get our PVCs,” Okimba said.
