Edo 2024: INEC extends voting hours in areas affected by delays

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced an extension of voting hours in areas where polling began late due to adverse weather and logistical challenges.

The announcement was made on Saturday by Mohammed Haruna, INEC National Commissioner, who emphasized the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in the election.

In the statement, Haruna acknowledged the mixed reports from across the state, noting that while many polling units began voting on time, some locations experienced significant delays.

“Our monitoring indicates early commencement of polls in many Polling Units, but there are also reports of late commencement in some locations,” he said.

To address these delays and prevent voter disenfranchisement, Haruna reiterated that, according to INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines, voting will be extended in any polling unit that started late. “Voting will continue until the last voter in line who arrives by 2:30 PM has cast their ballot,” he stated.

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The decision comes in response to reports of inclement weather, particularly rainfall, which hampered the timely arrival of election materials and officials in certain areas.

By extending the voting period, INEC aims to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that all voters can participate, regardless of the circumstances that may have delayed the commencement of voting.

As the election unfolds, INEC’s proactive approach to address logistical challenges reflects its commitment to transparency and fairness in the electoral process, reassuring voters that their voices will be heard.