The Independent National Electoral Commission has said it will go ahead with the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States as scheduled.
The National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, said this in a statement on Tuesday after a meeting of the Commission.
Okoye said Commission deliberated extensively on a Policy Framework that will guide its operations, activities and engagements with critical stakeholders in view of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the electoral process in Nigeria.
He said based on this, the Commission will on May 21, 2020 issue a Policy Framework for engagement with stakeholders, conduct of the two end of tenure governorship elections, outstanding bye elections and future electoral activities.
He added: “The Commission reiterated its commitment to conduct the Edo and Ondo Governorship elections on 19th September and 10th October 2020 as contained in the Timetable and Schedule of Activities released on 6th February 2020.
“We reassure Nigerians of our resolve and determination to provide the requisite guidance, innovation and leadership in conducting elections in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Commission is committed to fulfilling its constitutional responsibility of conducting elections but without jeopardizing the health and wellbeing of citizens, stakeholders or its valued staff.
“The Commission will accelerate consultations and engagements with political parties, civil society organizations, security agencies and health authorities as soon as its Policy Framework is finalized this week.
“We again urge everyone to remain safe and healthy by complying with all the guidelines and protocols issued by the health authorities.”