Senate summons INEC Chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega to explain postponement of elections

The Senate has summoned the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Attahiru Jega, to appear before it and explain the reason for the postponement of the general elections.

Prof Jega is to appear before the Senate on Wednesday, February 17.

The Senate has also asked Professor Jega to appear before it with card readers to demonstrate how INEC would use them during the elections.

At the resumption of plenary on Tuesday, Senate President, David Mark, also warned that an interim government is unconstitutional and those clamouring for it are embarking in an exercise in futility.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had announced a shift in the general elections dates to March 28 and April 11.

The new schedule was announced on February 7 by Prof Jega, after meetings with political stakeholders.

Prof Jega said that the Presidential Election will hold on March 28 while the Governorship election on April 11.

“We have done wide reaching consultations to enable us have as much input as necessary before taking an informed decision.

“In the series of consultations that we had with stakeholders, the questions constantly posed to them for consideration are; in view of the latest developments, should INEC proceed with the conduct of the general elections as scheduled in spite of the strong advice and if so, what alternative security arrangements are available to be put in place.

“The second is; should INEC take the advice of the security chiefs and adjust the schedules of the general elections within the framework of the constitutional provisions,” Professor Jega said.

Credit: Channels