The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced an extension of voting hours in locations where the governorship election in Edo State commenced later than scheduled.
This extension was confirmed in a statement released on Saturday by INEC National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna.
The Commission, monitoring the election from its situation room at the National Headquarters in Abuja, observed that while voting began on time in many polling units, there were reports of delayed starts in some areas.
To prevent disenfranchisement, INEC reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all eligible voters who were in the queue by the official closing time of 2:30 p.m. will still have the opportunity to cast their votes. The Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines allow for an extension of voting hours in polling units that experienced late starts.
In addition, INEC has directed its office in Edo State to ensure that back-up power generators are available where necessary, to maintain adequate power supply at affected polling units and ward collation centers.
The extension aims to ensure a fair and inclusive election process in the state.
Mohammed Haruna
National Commissioner & Member,
Information and Voter Education Committee
Saturday, September 21, 2024
