President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed disappointment in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the postponement of Presidential and National Assembly elections, earlier scheduled for Saturday 16, February, Igbere TV reports.
The President spoke in his Daura countryhome, Katsina State where he had been since Thursday, hoping to exercise his franchise like other Nigerians.
He said his pains stem from the fact that many people had traveled from various locations just to participate in the electoral process.
Igbere TV gathered that the development is however forcing the President to return to Abuja with immediate effect.
“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.
“Many Nigerians have traveled to various locations to exercise their right to vote, and international observers are gathered.
“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.
“We now urge 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.
“I have decided to move back to Abuja to ensure that the 14.00 hrs meeting called by INEC with all stakeholders is successful,” Buhari wrote.
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