Politics
Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi guber: We are good to go – INEC boss, Yakubu provides fresh update on readiness
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Yakubu Mahmoud, has given an updated account of the commission’s preparations for the off-cycle governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States.
Within the next 24 hours, 5,169,692 Nigerians who have collected their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) in the affected states are set to cast their votes to choose their next governors. This marks the first time in Nigeria’s history that these elections are being held concurrently on the same day and across three geopolitical zones: North Central (Kogi), South East (Imo), and South-South (Bayelsa).
Prof Yakubu called upon INEC officials, both regular and ad hoc, to exhibit the highest level of patriotism and professionalism, emphasizing that the Commission is impartial and has no affiliations with any political party or candidate. In a statement he personally signed, he stated, “Our responsibility is to safeguard the process and ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates.”
He highlighted that the choice of the governors for Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States rests entirely with the voters and outlined the comprehensive measures taken by INEC for the smooth conduct of the elections. These measures include the delivery of all necessary materials, configuration of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and training of election-duty officials.
The INEC Chairman emphasized that the Commission is determined to ensure prompt voting, deploying officials ahead of voters, even in challenging locations. He also noted that for these off-cycle elections, INEC is deploying two National Commissioners, nine Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), and Administrative Secretaries, along with additional staff from different states, to support the process.
Prof Yakubu underscored that election is a shared responsibility involving multiple stakeholders, and lessons from past elections have informed their approach. He assured that INEC will continue to work towards free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections but emphasized the need for collective effort, stating, “INEC cannot do it alone.”
He highlighted assurances from security agencies regarding a secure environment for electoral activities and called for the maintenance of peace by all participants. Political parties and candidates have already signed a peace accord under the National Peace Committee (NPC), and Prof Yakubu urged everyone to play their roles conscientiously to uphold democracy.
Former House of Representatives member, Hon. Sylvester Ogbaga, has officially stepped down from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Ogbaga, who represented the Abakiliki/lsu federal constituency of Ebonyi State from 1999 to 2023, made this announcement through a resignation letter dated April 24, 2024. The letter was addressed to the Chairman of the PDP Anmegu Enyigba ward and was also sent to the local government area (LGA) and state chairmen of the party.
In his resignation letter, Ogbaga stated, “I am writing to officially inform you of my resignation from the PDP. After careful evaluation and consideration of the current political climate within the party, I have decided to take a step back. Since 1998, I have remained a steadfast member of the PDP, contributing significantly to its growth with unwavering dedication and support.”
He emphasized that his decision to resign was personal and expressed gratitude for the leadership and support he received within the party. Ogbaga concluded his letter by wishing the PDP well in its future endeavors.
The Forum of All Progressives Congress State Chairmen has expressed full support for the party’s national chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, by passing a vote of confidence in him.
A delegation comprising 37 state party chairmen asserted that there was an attempted coup to oust Ganduje from his position as APC National Chairman, but it was unsuccessful.
This declaration was made during a solidarity visit to the party’s secretariat in Abuja, where they reaffirmed their loyalty to Ganduje.
The acting chairman of the forum and Lagos APC chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, stated that they stand firmly behind Ganduje and are prepared to defend him against any external threats.
“We want to assure you that you remain the leader of our party. The individuals who announced your removal were not recognized members of the party to begin with. We will not allow you to face the same embarrassment as former chairmen of the party.”
“What they attempted was akin to a coup, but their efforts have been thwarted. Our presence here signifies our unwavering support for you at all times,” he emphasized.
Following the inability of the Southeast governors to conduct Local Government elections in their respective States, the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) has threatened a legal action against them if the situation remains the same in the next 60 days.
National Vice Chairman of the party, Southeast zone,Chilos Godsent disclosed this in a communiqué he released to newsmen after the 2024 annual zonal retreat of the party held at Awka, Anambra State.
ADC also requested the governors to “reconstitute fund and mandate the respective State Independent Electoral Commission to publish the timetable for Local Government Council Election in their respective states.
Godsent argued that the non existence of Democratic Local Government system violates Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. (Daily Sun)
CREDIT: News Express
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