President Buhari has today urged Nigerians to stay calm amid the election delay.
The President made an appeal 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.
Buhari said that he is deeply disappointed that despite the long notice given and their 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.” he stated
Buhari mentioned that the administration has ensured that it does not interfere in any way with the work of INEC except to ensure that all funds were released to the commission.
They also 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 the unfortunate postponement, and ensure a free and fair election on the rescheduled dates.
Buhari also reaffirmed his strong commitment to the independence, neutrality of the electoral umpire & the sanctity of the electoral process & ballot.
He then urged all political stakeholders & Nigerians to continue to rally round INEC during this trying national moment in their democratic journey.