BREAKING: INEC bows to pressure, extend voting time in some Edo guber polling units

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially extended voting time in several polling units for the ongoing Edo governorship election.

In a press release issued today, the commission acknowledged delays in the commencement of voting in some locations.

INEC stated that although polls started early in many areas, certain polling units experienced late starts. To prevent voter disenfranchisement, the Commission has confirmed that voting will be extended in these affected areas. As per INEC regulations, voting will continue until all voters in line by 2:30 p.m. have cast their ballots.

INEC further highlighted that back-up power generators will be deployed to ensure smooth operation at polling units or ward collation centres where necessary.

The statement was signed by Mohammed Haruna, National Commissioner and Member of the Information and Voter Education Committee.

According to its PRESS RELEASE:

EXTENSION OF VOTING TIME IN AREAS WHERE THE PROCESS COMMENCED LATE

The Commission continues to monitor the ongoing governorship election in Edo State from our situation room at the National Headquarters in Abuja.

Our monitoring indicates early commencement of polls in many Polling Units, but there are also reports of late commencement in some locations.

To ensure that no voter is disenfranchised, the Commission wishes to reiterate that, in line with our Regulations and Guidelines, voting will be extended wherever it commenced late and will continue until the last voter on the queue who arrived at the Polling Unit by 2.30pm has voted.

Accordingly, we have drawn the attention of our office in Edo State to ensure that, where necessary, there is adequate power supply from our back-up electric generators in the affected Polling Units or Ward Collation Centres.

Mohammed Haruna
National Commissioner & Member,
Information and Voter Education Committee
Saturday 21st September 2024