Buhari frowns at INEC Postponement of Elections
President Muhammadu Buhari has frowned at the postponement of the
presidential and governorship elections by the Independent National Electoral
Commission (INEC) early this morning.
In a statement personally signed by him in Daura, his hometown, Buhari
expressed disappointment with the decision of INEC to move the date of the
elections.
The statement is reproduced below:
“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.
Muhammadu Buhari
Daura, February 16, 2019
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