The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, is considering the possibility of postponing the 2019 general election, the election umpire hinted yesterday.
Citing threats of violence by some politicians in the country, Chairman of the commission, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, said there is a need for the commission to be extra vigilant.
Prof, Yakubu said this while reacting to some disturbing videos of political campaigns on social media where some politicians are seen threatening to shed blood.
He spoke when he received briefing from the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State on the progress and the preparedness of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.
Prof. Yakuku explained that recent developments and signs in the country’s political landscape calls for greater vigilance, while he asked politicians to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner.
The INEC boss who observed that election can only hold when there is a secured environment said, “In fact, the electoral Act, specially section 26, empowers the commission to suspend election on account of violence or threat of violence.
“So, we will continue to partner and continue to work with security agencies as we approach the 2019 general election. Our meetings are going to become more frequent and regular”.
Yakubu explained that the synergy between the electoral body and security agencies is crucial for the 2019 polls in order to secure the environment for the conduct of the elections.
He insists there is no way election can be conducted except the nation maintains order, peace and progress.
“Elections cannot be conducted in an atmosphere of rancour. So, we share this great responsibility with the security agencies. Good election is good for this country. Bad election is a recipe for disaster; we don’t pray for it,” he continued.
“So, let us continue to work together to anticipate the challenges and address the challenges because we have the capacity to do so. The nation expects we should do so and once we do so, there will be fewer problems during elections.”
Eagle News
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