Aka Ekene, PBA Journalism MenteeVoting during an election is one of the most important exercises of democracy. It is a chance for citizens to choose their preferred candidate or party who they believe can lead them in the right direction. It is crucial to understand the voting procedures to avoid any complications on Election Day. This article, brought to you by Prime Business Africa, will guide you through the voting procedures during an election.
Eligibility to Vote
To be eligible to vote during an election, you must be a registered voter, and your name must appear on the Register of Voters at your polling unit on Election Day. It is essential to note that voters on the queue before the close of poll at 2:00 PM will be accredited and allowed to vote.
Polling Hours
Polling stations will open for accreditation and voting from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Accreditation is the process of verifying the voter’s details, while voting is the process of casting the ballot. Voters must ensure they arrive at the polling unit before 2 p.m. to avoid missing out on the opportunity to vote.
Step by Step Voting Procedure
The voting process at the polling unit involves the following steps:
Step One: Join the Queue and Confirm Your Details
Join the queue and wait for your turn. An official will check if you are at the correct polling unit and confirm that the PVC presented belongs to you. Ensure that you are at the correct polling unit to avoid any issues.
Step Two: Confirm the Authenticity of Your PVC
An INEC official will confirm if your PVC is genuine using the card reader. You will be asked to place your finger on the card reader for confirmation. It is crucial to have your PVC with you on Election Day as it is the only acceptable means of identification.
Step Three: Confirm Your Details on the Voter’s Register
An INEC official will also confirm that you are listed in the voter’s register. Your name will be ticked, and your finger will be inked to confirm that you have voted. If your name is not found in the voter’s register, you cannot vote.
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Step Four: Receive Your Ballot Paper
The Presiding Officer will stamp, sign, and endorse your ballot paper. You will be given the ballot paper rolled with the printed side inwards and directed to the voting cubicle. Ensure that the ballot paper is stamped, signed, and endorsed to avoid any issues.
Step Five: Vote for Your Preferred Candidate or Party
Stain your finger with the ink given and mark the box for your preferred candidate or party on the ballot paper. Roll the ballot paper in the manner you are given and flatten it. It is essential to vote wisely and avoid vote buying.
Step Six: Cast Your Ballot
Leave the voting cubicle and drop the ballot paper in the ballot box in full view of people at the polling unit. Ensure that you drop your ballot paper in the ballot box to avoid any invalidation of your vote.
Step Seven: Wait for the Results
Leave the polling unit or wait if you wish to, in an orderly and peaceful manner to watch the process up to the declaration of the result. The result of each polling unit shall be pasted at the unit for everyone to see.
Conclusion
In conclusion, voting during an election is a crucial exercise for citizens to choose their preferred candidate or party. It is crucial to understand the voting procedures to avoid any complications on Election Day. Follow the above steps to cast your vote, and remember to vote wisely and avoid vote buying.
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