…INEC, Ensure That Materials Already Distributed Are Safe Hands, Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari, candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the 2019 presidential poll, has expressed his disappointment over the 2019 elections without his knowledge. Buhari who implied in a statement via his twitter handle that he had no prior knowledge of the election postponement claimed that his led Federal government released enough fund to INEC to ensure the successful conduct of the elections.
“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.
“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.
The President said he’s deeply disappointed at INEC given the level of assurances the commission gave Nigerians that the elections would hold, and that virtually all registered voters had traveled to their states or local government where they are registered to perform their civic responsibility, adding that the postponement was very unfortunate and unanticipated.
“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.
“Many Nigerians have traveled to various locations to exercise their right to vote, and international observers are gathered.” He noted urging “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 a free and fair election on the rescheduled dates.”
President Buhari therefore urges Nigerians to refrain from all civil disorder and remain peaceful, patriotic and united to ensure that no force or conspiracy derail our democratic development.
“While I reaffirm my strong commitment to the independence, neutrality of the electoral umpire & the sanctity of the electoral process & ballot, I urge all political stakeholders & Nigerians to continue to rally round INEC at this trying national moment in our democratic journey.” He added.
