INEC Announces Full Readiness For Edo Election As Countdown Hits 57 Days

INEC Announces Full Readiness For Edo Election As Countdown Hits 57 Days

Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has confirmed that the Commission is fully prepared for the Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21. According to Naija News, Yakubu highlighted that there are no current security concerns affecting the election……. CONTINUE READING 

During his address to the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters, Yakubu reassured that there are no reports of security threats. Although a political party had previously voiced concerns about potential security issues during a visit by INEC National Commissioners to Edo State, no formal reports from political parties or candidates have indicated any significant threats.

Yakubu further explained that during a recent meeting with political parties at INEC’s Benin office, the Commissioner of Police committed to addressing any security issues in coordination with the state government.

He stated, “With less than 60 days to the Edo election and about 100 days to the Ondo election, we are well-prepared. Our Commission has a track record of successfully managing governorship elections in both states. We conducted elections in Edo in 2016 and 2020, and we are set for September 2024. Similarly, we managed elections in Ondo in 2016 and 2020, and we are planning for November 2024.”

Yakubu noted that despite some challenges, including flooding at the Edo office, preparations are on track. He recalled that in 2020, INEC operated from a rented office due to similar issues, but this time they have sufficient time to address the problem.

Regarding security, Yakubu addressed concerns raised by a political party about the possible deployment of the Edo State Security Network (ESSN). Following the complaint, he met with the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to resolve the issue. The Commissioner assured him that any concerns would be addressed with the state government and political parties.

Yakubu concluded, “Currently, there have been no further complaints regarding the ESSN. Everything is progressing smoothly as we approach the election in 57 days.”