TheCable

Enugu state government has declared Wednesday, February 23, as a public holiday to ensure residents’ “full and active” participation in the state’s local government elections.

On that day, elections will be held for 17 chairmanships and 260 councillorships positions.

In a statement on Sunday, Steve Oruruo, special adviser to the governor on information, said markets and offices would be closed, just as the movement of persons and vehicles would be restricted from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except for those on essential duties.

“The Enugu state government (ENSG) wishes to notify the public that local government elections will hold on Wednesday, February 23, 2022, across the state,” the statement reads.

“Consequently, the Government has declared a statewide work-free day on Wednesday, February 23, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to allow the people to exercise their constitutional suffrage.

“During this period, markets and offices shall be closed and movement of persons and vehicles restricted, except for those on essential duties.

“All residents legally qualified to vote are, therefore, encouraged to go to the polls and cast their ballots.

“The State government, in its unflinching commitment to safeguarding and strengthening our democracy, has made requisite arrangements to guarantee a hitch-free process.”