TheCable

After initial delays that lasted nearly an hour after four voter card readers failed to clear him, President Goodluck Jonathan has finally been accredited – but without the card card reader – to vote in the election.

Jonathan had tried three different card leaders without luck, and he had to wait for further directives.

After undergoing verification by a fourth card reader, which proved unsuccessful as well, he left the polling booth, saying he was sure the problem would be sorted out.

Speaking with the media after he was accredited without card reader on his return, he urged Nigerians to be patient with the Independent National Electoral Commission.

“I plead with all Nigerians to be patient no matter the pain we take, because the whole world is interested in Nigeria’s election. I encourage Nigerians to be patient with INEC if you have a card reader problem,” he said.

“Please don’t instigate violence; wait patiently. Everybody will vote because there are ad hoc arrangements where they can verify that the person is authentic.”

He used the opportunity to commend Nigerians for participating in the general election to elect a new president, senators and members of the house of representatives.

“There may be hitches because this the first time we are using this technology of permanent voters card and card readers,” he added.

“I just spoke with INEC chairman; I wanted to know what is happening across the country”.

“President Jonathan is just one person; even if we have problems with my card, as long as the process is going on well nationally, it’s okay. Definitely, they will sort out my own because I can’t be a ghost-voter; everybody knows.

“I’m not worried. There may be a delay. I cannot speak for INEC; my interest is that we conduct credible elections, peaceful elections. We are totally committed to that. And I believe that no matter the hitches we will experience in some places… If I can endure, you see me sweating, you can endure as well.”