We’re ready for Saturday polls—INEC

Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has reiterated the commission’s readiness to conduct a free and fair election this weekend, Saturday, February 25.

Yakubu stated this on Wednesday at the signing of the peace accord by political parties and candidates on the 2023 general election in Abuja.

“This morning, we commenced the movement of sensitive materials to the various Local Government Areas nationwide. By Friday, we will activate the Registration Area Centres (RACs) so that at first light on Saturday, Polling Units will open on time.

“The Commission is committed to free, fair and credible elections in compliance with the electoral legal framework and the letter and spirit of the Peace Accord. All political parties and candidates are hereby reassured of the Commission’s neutrality. Above all, Nigerians should feel confident that their votes will count.

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“Over the next two days beginning from tomorrow, Thursday, the Commission will be holding a daily media briefing at 3pm. The briefing will be held at this venue. The purpose is to provide updates on preparations for the elections and to respond to issues that may arise. The briefing is open to political parties, civil society organizations, observers, and the media and security agencies.

Yakubu also appreciated the untiring effort of the National Peace Committee (NPC) for convening this important event.

“This is the 3rd Peace Accord to be signed by parties and candidates on the eve of a General Election in Nigeria since 2015 and the 9th overall if we include the Accords signed before the commencement of electioneering campaign in September last year and ahead of the five off-cycle Governorship elections in Edo and Ondo in 2020, Anambra in 2021 and Ekiti and Osun States in 2022.

“The signing of the Peace Accord today comes at a critical moment in the electoral calendar. Campaign for Presidential and National Assembly elections ends at midnight tomorrow Thursday 23rd February 2023. Election will be held on Saturday this week. INEC is ready.”