President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure the safety of materials already distributed as well as not getting into wrong hands.
Buhari stated this on Saturday in a statement issued in Daura, Katsina State his hometown on the postponement of the general elections slated for Saturday, February 16 and March 2 has returned to Abuja for official duties.
Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the INEC Chairman announced the postponement of the election on Saturday morning in Abuja over what he described as ‘logistic and technical problems.’
Buhari who is also the presidential candidate for All Progressives Congress, APC, noted “..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.”
According to him, “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.”
The President assured “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.
“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,” Buhari added.
