TheCable

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says the governorship elections in Ondo and Edo states have not been rescheduled because of the coronavirus.

Festus Okoye, INEC spokesman, announced this on Monday while reacting to reports that the commission will postpone the elections.

He said the date for the poll in Edo remains September 19, 2020, while that of Ondo is still October 10.

INEC announced the dates for the elections in February, weeks before Nigeria recorded its first case of coronavirus.

Although it has suspended operations because of the pandemic, the commission said no decision has been taken to adjust the time table the governorship polls in the two states.

“While we are mindful of the negative impact of the Coronavirus disease, we are also monitoring the various efforts by the Federal and State Governments, health authorities and other stakeholders to contain the spread of and eliminate COVID-19,” Okoye said in a statement.

“If and when the need arises to adjust the time table for the elections, same will be conveyed to the public in the usual manner.

“In the meantime, we will continue to study the situation carefully and cooperate with other stakeholders in the battle against COVID19.”

INEC had earlier released 100 vans to support the fight against coronavirus.