INEC chairman Yakubu Mahmood gives reasons for election postponement.

INEC chairman Yakubu Mahmood gives reasons for election postponement.

INEC held a meeting with observers following the postponement of the general, INEC chairman Yakubu Mahmood explained the decision was taken after logistical issues.

INEC briefs International Observers on reasons for rescheduling General Elections.

INEC Chairman, Prof Yakubu Mahmood and Members of the Commission in a Meeting with Key Stakeholders On updates of the 2019 General Elections.

- Prof Yakubu Mahmood

I conveyed to Nigerians the decision of INEC to reschedule the 2019 General Elections by one week. Presidential and National Assembly earlier scheduled for 16th February 2019 will now hold on Saturday 23rd February 2019 while Governorship, State Assembly and FCT Area Council Elections scheduled for 2nd March 2019 will now hold on Saturday 9th March 2019. The one-week adjustment was a painful one for INEC but necessary in the overall interest of our democracy.

Nigerians will recall that when this Commission was appointed in November 2015, we promised Nigerians two cardinal things. First, we shall work hard to consolidate the improvements made in the management of elections in Nigeria since 2011. Secondly. we shall always be open transparent and responsive. We have strived diligently to keep these promises in very trying circumstances. 3. In keeping with our promise to consolidate the gains of the last two electoral cycles, the Commission has conducted 195 rerun and off-season elections across.

There has been delays in delivering ballot papers and result sheets. In the last 1 week, flight within the country have been delayed due to bad weather, hence delay in delivering election materials to some states.

We also faced attempt to sabotage our preparations. 3 fire incidents within a week further in 3 states diverted our attention from preparations.

If the elections go on as planned, polls won’t open at 8am across the country & will affect the credibility of the elections.

Source: Kogi News Point