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

The governor addressed journalists on Saturday shortly after casting his votes at exactly 11:07 am, at Ward 033, Ipong Ward in Obudu Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.

“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,” he stated.

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

Speaking on the likely outcome of the governorship election, Ayade said he was optimistic that the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate would emerge victorious.

He added, “This is an exercise that is predicated on justice, equity and fairness, and on the basis of that, all men and women of a 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.”