The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Akwa Ibom State in southern Nigeria, says it is ready for the February polls in the state.

Akwa Ibom State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr Austin Eni Okojie, gave the assurance in Uyo on Friday, when he met with members of Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Akwa Ibom State Chapter.

Mr Okojie said, the Commission had already received some non-sensitive materials. According to him, items already received included ballot boxes, live vests, card readers and more Permanent Voters Cards (PVC).

He solicited the support of political parties in encouraging the electorate to come out and collect their PVCs in other to vote for candidates of their choice.

The REC also appealed to Political Parties, the Electorate, Security Agencies, Traditional Rulers and Religious Leaders to create a conducive environment for violence-free elections.

The Akwa Ibom State Chairman of IPAC, Mr Paul Ekpo, said the body was formed to promote inter-party relations to ensure credible and violence-free elections.

Mr Ekpo, who is also the Akwa Ibom state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), expressed the body’s desire to partner with the INEC and assured residents of the state of its cooperation with the electoral body to develop Nigeria’s political culture.

Representatives of about 12 political parties were also present at the event.