INEC, Independent National Electoral commission has stated that it has no plan of shifting the date of the Ondo and Edo governorship polls from October 10 and September 19 respectively.
The commission has however said it is determined to ensure the provision of proper guidance, leadership, as well as innovation that will smoothen the process of the election during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The commission also expressed determination to provide the requisite guidance, innovation and leadership in conducting elections in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The announcement was made by the National Commissioner of INEC and Chairman of Information, Festus Okoye, in Abuja, on Tuesday.
He said, “The commission deliberated extensively on a policy framework that will guide its operations, activities and engagements with critical stakeholders in view of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the electoral process in Nigeria.
“Based on this, the commission will on Thursday, May 21, 2020, issue a policy framework for engagement with stakeholders, the conduct of the two end of tenure governorship elections, outstanding bye elections and future electoral activities.
“The commission reiterated its commitment to conduct the Edo and Ondo governorship elections September 19 and October 10, 2020 as contained in the timetable and schedule of activities released on February 6, 2020.
“We reassure Nigerians of our resolve and determination to provide the requisite guidance, innovation and leadership in conducting elections in the context of the COVID -19 pandemic.
“The commission is committed to fulfilling its constitutional responsibility of conducting elections but without jeopardizing the health and wellbeing of citizens, stakeholders or its valued staff.
“The commission will accelerate consultations and engagements with political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies and health authorities as soon as its policy framework is finalised this week. We again urge everyone to remain safe and healthy by complying with all the guidelines and protocols issued by the health authorities.”
In a related news, the APC announced the dates of its governorship primaries for Ondo and Edo has July 20 and June 22 respectively.
It was announced through a notice signed by APC’s National Organizing Secretary, Emma Ibediro, in Abuja, on Tuesday
This was contained in a notice signed by the APC National Organizing Secretary, Emma Ibediro, in Abuja, on Tuesday.
The estimated cummulative cost for each aspirant is 22.5 million naira for nomination and interest form purchase. The sale of the form will be between May 20th and July 2nd, while July 3rd will be the last day of submission of forms and necessary documents.
