A party agent, identified simply as Joe has been shot dead in Mbube, Ogoja for attempting to disrupt voting process during the Governorship and House of Assembly elections.

The deceased was said to have been shot dead by soldiers stationed close to the polling unit.

The Cross River State Commissioner of Police, Garba Aliyu confirmed the incident on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Cross River State governor, Senator Ben Ayade, has expressed satisfaction in the turnout of voters at the March 18 governorship and House of Assembly elections, describing it as massive.

Voicing his satisfaction shortly after casting his votes at exactly 11:07.am, Ward 033, Ipong Ward, Governor Ayade noted that “this is a remarkable departure from the Presidential and Senatorial elections of February 12, when INEC personnel were nowhere to be seen, culminating in the delay in the exercise.

“Voting, as I learnt, actually started here at 8:30.am. The turnout, I should admit, is also massive. I must also not fail to mention that it is peaceful.”

Speaking about the likely outcome of the governorship election, Ayade said he was optimistic that the All Progressives Congress candidate, Prince Bassey Otu will emerge victorious because he is the popular choice of Cross Riverians.

His words: “I have no doubt in my mind that our candidate, Prince Bassey Otu will triumph. He is very popular among Cross Riverians. But beyond that, this is an exercise that is predicated on justice, equity and fairness, and on the basis of that, all men and women of good conscience, justice, equity and fairness will vote along the lines I have mentioned.

“And with due respect, I strongly believe that the principles of justice, equity and fairness will prevail.”