The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has promised to release the policy framework for Edo and Ondo governorship elections, as well as outstanding by-elections and future electoral activities on Thursday, May 21.
The commission announced this in a statement issued by its National Commissioner and chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, in Abuja on Tuesday.
Okoye reiterated INEC’s commitment to conduct of the two state governorship elections in accordance with the timetable and schedule of activities released on February 6.
“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, 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 on Sept 19 and Oct. 10 as contained in the timetable and schedule of activities released on Feb. 6.
“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, without jeopardising the health and wellbeing of citizens, stakeholders or its valued staff,’’ Okoye explained.
He explained that the commission would accelerate consultations and engagements with political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies and health authorities as soon as its policy framework is finalised.
He urged everyone to remain safe and healthy by complying with all the guidelines and protocols issued by the health authorities.
