Polls Postponement: Buhari Urges Support For INEC, Though Disappointed

President Muhammadu Buhari says he is disappointed with polls postponement by the Independent National Electoral Commission, but urged Nigerians to rally round the electoral body.

In a statement from Daura, his home state of Katisna, Buhari said his disappointment stems from the fact that the INEC was given it all that it required for a successful conduct of 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,” Buhari said.

He noted that “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.

“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.”

The president charged the “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

“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.

“I, therefore, 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.”

According to him, he is returning to Abuja to ensure that the meeting called by the electoral commission was successful.