By Nwafor Okafor
The Independent National Electoral Commission has advised female voters in the Anambra State in November 6 governorship election to avoid facial makeups.
The commission said the advice had become necessary because of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System the commission would be deploying to capture voters’ faces during the poll.
The INEC State Deputy Director, Gender Desk , Chika Osuji stated this in Awka, Anambra State at a voter education and sensitisation forum for persons with disabilities and Women’s groups.
The programme was organised by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems , United States Agency for International Development and the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening.
Osuji, said “The BVAS will be used during the Anambra gubernatorial election to enable voters use their fingerprints during accreditation at the polling units.
“I know many women may not be able to engage make-up artists due to restriction of movements; nut for those who can’t do without make-ups, we appeal to you to minimise the level of painting.
“If we can’t read your fingerprints we can read your face, and if we cannot read your ,you are not a registered voter, and we will not allow you to participate.”
“It is our responsibility as women to take this election seriously by participating actively and making our votes count.
“The commission, has beyond ensuring gender mainstreaming to enhance women’s participation in electoral process, has been engaging religious and women groups, traditional rulers and community leaders to educate women on their role in election.”
