Buhari Expresses Disappointment Over Postponment Of Election By INEC

CYRIACUS IZUEKWE

President Muhammadu Buhari has opened up on the shocking postponment of the Presidential and National Assembly elections sheduled on Saturday by INEC.

P.M.EXPRESS reports that this was disclosed by Buhari in his home state in Katsina where he had gone to participate in the elections. He said that he was 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.
Buhari noted that many Nigerians had traveled to various locations to exercise their right to vote and international observers were gathered to monitor the elections before it was rescheduled. He also said that INEC themselves had given assurances day after day and almost hour after hour that they were in complete readiness for the elections. And the world and all our citizens believed them.
“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” he said.
He urged INEC to ensure not only that materials already distributed are safe and do not get into wrong hands but that everything is done to avoid the lapses that resulted in this unfortunate postponement and ensure free and fair elections on the rescheduled dates.
“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” Buhari said.
He appealed 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.” the President said before leaving for Abuja.