President Muhammadu In Daura, has expressed his frustration with the postponement of the general elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INWC), saying that said he was disappointed by the shift in dates of the polls.
Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, announced the shift in dates of the polls, on Saturday morning.
The Commission rescheduled the Presidential and National Assembly Elections to Saturday, February 23, 2019 while the governorship, State Houses of Assembly and Federal Capital Territory Area Council polls earlier fixed for March 2 would now be conducted on Saturday, March 9 2019.
Buhari regretted that despite INEC’s assurances that it was ready, the long notice given, preparations both locally and internationally, and the fact that many Nigerians have traveled to various locations to exercise their right to vote, and international observers are gathered, the commission postponed the elections using logistics as excuse.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to the independence, neutrality of the electoral umpire and the sanctity of the electoral process and ballot, he however urged all political stakeholders and Nigerians to continue to rally round INEC at what he described as “this trying national moment in our democratic journey.”
President Buhari also charged INEC to ensure not only are the materials already distributed safe but that they do not get into wrong hands, and must do everything to avoid the lapses that resulted in the unfortunate postponement in the first place.”
President Buhari said, “I am deeply disappointed that despite the long notice given and our preparations both locally and internationally, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) postponed the Presidential and National Assembly elections within hours of its commencement.
“Many Nigerians have traveled to various locations to exercise their right to vote, and international observers are gathered.
“INEC themselves have given assurances, day after day and almost hour after hour that they are in complete readiness for the elections. We and all our citizens believed them.
“This administration has ensured that we do not interfere in any way with the work of INEC except to ensure that all funds were released to the commission.
“We now urge INEC to ensure not only that materials already distributed are safe and do not get into wrong hands, but that everything is done to avoid the lapses that resulted in this unfortunate postponement, and ensure a free and fair election on the rescheduled dates.
“While I reaffirm my strong commitment to the independence, neutrality of the electoral umpire and the sanctity of the electoral process and ballot, I urge all political stakeholders and Nigerians to continue to rally round INEC at this trying national moment in our democratic journey.
“I, therefore, appeal to all Nigerians to refrain from all civil disorder and remain peaceful, patriotic and united to ensure that no force or conspiracy derail our democratic development.
“I have decided to move back to Abuja to ensure that the 14.00 hrs meeting called by INEC with all stakeholders is successful.”
