Ahead of the local government elections, another Nigerian governor has declared a public holiday to facilitate smooth participation. Get the latest updates.

In preparation for the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, October 5, the Benue State Government has declared Friday, October 4, a national holiday.

The measure is aimed at giving residents sufficient time to travel to their respective local government areas and enable them to fully participate in the electoral process.

Governor Hyacinth Arias made the statement in a statement issued by his Press Secretary, Tersu Kura, on Thursday, October 3.

The Governor noted that the national holiday would enable voters to exercise their civil rights, stressing the importance of active participation in the democratic process.

Governor Arias also called on Benue State residents to seize the opportunity to participate in the elections.

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He called on voters to peacefully go to polling stations, observe security regulations and contribute to a smooth electoral process.

The non-working days are aimed at increasing voter turnout and allowing residents to participate in the democratic process without work constraints.

OBASANJONEWS also reported that Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminarai Hubara, has declared Thursday and Friday as public holidays to allow residents to travel to their respective communities ahead of Saturday’s local government elections.

A strict vehicular ban will also be in place from midnight on Friday, October 4, until 5pm on polling day.

OBASANJONEWS reported that as the elections draw near, the Benue State government continues to stress the importance of peaceful and orderly conduct during the election period and calls on all residents to play their part to strengthen democracy at the local level.