We’re Set for Saturday’s Election, Lagos REC …Commends Security Agents, Journalists

Sekinah Lawal/

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has given reassurance of its readiness for the coming Governorship/ State House of Assembly elections.

It says the commission has replaced Adhoc Staff found wanting during the recently concluded Presidential/National Assembly polls in the state.

According to the Lagos State Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Mr. Sam Olumekun, INEC is fully prepared for the polls.

Olumekun commended media professionals for their support and useful criticism. He urged Lagosians to come out enmasse to exercise their civic responsibility in a very peaceful manner.

He also apologized for the late commencement of voting in some areas during the last polls as a result of some unforeseen circumstances.

Speaking at the Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, Olumekun said that all materials needed for the Governorship/State House of Assembly elections were available and in safe custody at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Olumekun made it known that the body would also conduct a rerun election for both Presidential/National Assembly Elections in a total of 76 registration areas and 148 polling units with 43,660 registered voters.

He said, “All adhoc staff that performed below expectations have been replaced. Payment of honoraria to all the adhoc staff that took part in the last elections have also been paid.”

He disclosed that dialogue was on going with the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW and NARTO for better performance and prompt delivery of men and election materials before 8am on March 9.

Although, details regarding the identities and numbers of the replaced adhoc staff were not disclosed, the commission reassured voters that the Smart Card Readers are being re-configured for the elections and refresher training would hold on Friday.

“The security agencies have assured us of maximum security before, during and after the elections,” Olumekun said.

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