Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) is the agency mandated to conduct, organize, and supervise local government elections within the state. Established with a mandate to consolidate free, fair, and credible electoral systems, CROSIEC is pivotal to ensuring grassroots democracy and strengthening local government governance. Aside from conducting elections, voter education, outreach to stakeholders, and electoral institutional reforms towards strengthening electoral integrity fall under the mandate of CROSIEC.
Since assuming the role of office as Chairman of CROSIEC, Dr. Ekong Boco has embarked on revitalizing the commission to operate with efficiency, transparency, and credibility. His tenure in office has been marked by significant infrastructural development, strategic human development, and commitment to professionalizing the operations of the commission. However, even with these commendable developments, unsubstantiated distractions hang heavy to undermine the achievements made.
Among Dr. Boco’s first initiatives was the improvement of the deplorable state of the CROSIEC headquarters. Knowing that a cordial working environment is essential to effectiveness, he introduced the renovation of office buildings with a view to establishing a more efficient and homey atmosphere for staff. For further efficiency, he sought permission for the setup of a central store, an important building that is aimed at reducing congestion in office areas as well as optimizing administrative work.
In addition to office renovation, Dr. Boco has overseen the construction of a suitable parking lot for staff vehicles, enhancing tidiness within the premises. In addition, he has placed individual toilets in each commissioner’s office—a contrast to the past when all the commissioners shared a single facility. A concrete road has also been constructed to facilitate smooth movement within the commission’s premises, making it easier for staff and visitors.
These infrastructural improvements are a testament to Dr. Boco’s vision of long-term institutional strengthening and sustainability, preparing CROSIEC for more efficiency in its mandate delivery.
The leadership of Dr. Boco transcends physical structures to the welfare of CROSIEC employees. In recognizing the central role of employees to ensure successful elections, he made it a point to engage the state government for payment of salary for newly employed civil servants at the commission. Although payment of salaries is handled by the office of the Accountant General, Dr. Boco went out of his way to advocate on behalf of affected workers, evidence of his commitment to their well-being.
His leadership is a demonstration of responsiveness and advocacy—two qualities that are paramount in nurturing an energized and productive workforce focused on performing in CROSIEC’s election responsibilities.
In the midst of these palpable milestones, detractors have made an attempt to halt progress made by CROSIEC with the spread of misinformation and unfounded claims. Recent false reports alleging the existence of a commission-owned server and misplaced accusations about salary delays have sought to misrepresent the realities on the ground.
This is truly worrisome as media professionals have allowed themselves to be used as clog in the wheels of progress. It’s important at this point to call on practitioners of journalism to consistently uphold the ethics of the profession and adhere to responsible and developmental journalism as well as factual reporting. A responsible journalist must prioritize fact-checking and objective analysis rather than sensationalism that misleads the public and distracts the public office holders.
Governor Bassey Otu’s Visionary Appointment
I will not conclude this editorial without acknowledging the foresightedness of Governor Bassey Otu. The on-going revolution in CROSIEC is a testimonial to the visionary disposition of His Excellency, Governor Otu. With the appointment of Dr. Boco to lead the commission, the governor demonstrated that he was acutely aware of the need for competence, innovation, and progress in the state electoral commission.
Governor Otu’s administration remains committed to people-centered policies and infrastructure renewal to ensure Cross Riverians benefit from sustainable leadership. His unapologetic support for CROSIEC’s reforms also says much about his commitment to transparency, accountability, and electoral integrity. His action to appoint such very capable individuals as Dr. Boco reflects a broader agenda of positioning Cross River State towards stronger democratic and institutional development.
It is therefore important that all stakeholders come together to support these development efforts and not be swayed by issues that are of no great value. With continued support, CROSIEC will continue on its path of transformation, in compliance with Governor Otu’s greater vision for a progressive and thriving Cross River State.
Ukorebi Esien writes from Calabar as the Editor-in-Chief, The Daily News Ng And a Peace Advocate. He’s currently the State Coordinator and Lead Consultant of Partners for Peace in the Niger Delta, and Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative respectively. A chartered Mediator from the Prestigious Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, a Fellow of the Cardinal Onyaienka Foundation for Peace (COFP). A strong advocate for effective leadership, Peacebuilding and Community Development
