Following criticisms by stakeholders and demands by the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has slashed the fees for Chairmanship and Councillorship forms for upcoming local government elections from N5 million Naira and N1 million Naira, respectively.

The governor in a press statement Wednesday night announced that those gunning for Council chairmanship will now pay only N1 million Naira, while councillorshop hopefuls are to purchase the forms for N200, 000 only.

Last week, the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission, CROSIEC, announced the former fees and fixed 25 October, 2024 as date for the elections.

Gov Otu has pledged that his government will cover the balance to CROSIEC and ensure compliance with the law.

He acknowledged the challenging economic circumstances faced by all due to ongoing federal government reforms.

Otu affirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusivity, people-centered policies, and a fair electoral process for the local government elections.

IPAC’s State Chairman, Engr. Edet Effiom of Action People’s Party (APP), accompanied by over 15 other party chairmen expressed gratitude for the governor’s democratic values and intervention.

They assured continued support as long as the administration upholds good governance practices, demonstrating IPAC’s dedication to the state’s developmental goals.