All bye-elections in 11 states in the country has been postponed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
INEC spokesman, Festus Okoye who made the announcement said
the 15 bye-elections was postponed due to the current state of things in the
country. It was further learnt that the
elections for six senatorial districts and nine state constituencies, were
scheduled to hold on October 31.
Okoye said;
“This decision is in compliance with Section 26 (2) of the
Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), which gives the Commission the power to
postpone an election if there is reason to believe that a serious breach of the
peace is likely to occur if the election is proceeded with on that date, or
that it is impossible to conduct the elections as a result of natural disasters
or other emergencies.
“The Commission will continue to monitor the situation in
all the States and Constituencies, consult with relevant Stakeholders and meet
again in two weeks to review the situation and decide on a feasible date for
the elections.
“The Commission appeals for calm and understanding of the
stakeholders and voters in the States where elections were scheduled. The
safety of the voters, election officials and other stakeholders is paramount to
the Commission in conducting elections.”
The INEC commissioner who further revealed that the decision
was taken Okoye after a meeting with all the resident electoral commissioners
(RECs), also expressed hope of Nigeria emerging from its current challenges
stronger.
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