Ime Akpan
President Muhammadu Buhari said on Saturday that he had decided to return to Abuja after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced shift in dates of elections which were slated to begin today with the presidential and national assembly polls.
It would be recalled that the president had left Abuja for his home town, Daura in Katsina State where he would have voted in the presidential and national assembly elections.
It would also be recalled that INEC had, in the early hours of Saturday, February 16, announced the postponement of the elections and issued new dates.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) met on Friday, 15th February 2019 and reviewed its preparations for the 2019 general elections scheduled for Saturday, 16th February 2019.
“Following a careful review of the implementation of its logistics and operational plan and the determination to conduct free, fair and credible elections, the Commission came to the conclusion that proceeding with the elections as scheduled is no longer feasible,” said INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.
In a statement issued on Saturday and personally signed by him, the president said he was deeply disappointed considering that many Nigerians had travelled while international observers had gathered.
Besides, he said he was deeply disappointed because the electoral body had given the assurance that everything was on course for smooth conduct of the exercise.
The statement reads: “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 travelled 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.”
