TheCable

Mahmood Yakubu, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), says the commission is determined to conduct the Anambra governorship election on November 6.

Speaking at a meeting of the inter-agency consultative committee on election Security (ICCES) on Monday, Yakubu said security agencies have assured INEC of safety of officials and residents.

The INEC chairman’s comment comes amid attacks in the south-east, as well as the recent threat by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to “lock down” the region if Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the group, isn’t released by November 4.

Yakubu, who said he had received assurance of improved security, added that he is confident that the “professionalism and neutrality” displayed by the security agencies at the Ondo and Edo elections would be replicated in Anambra.

“INEC is determined to proceed with the Anambra state governorship election as scheduled,” he said.

“The safety and protection of voters, our personnel, accredited observers, the media and materials are cardinal considerations in any election. We have been assured by the security agencies of a secure environment for the election.

“I am sure the CP of Anambra state, in his briefing, will provide more details regarding preparations on the ground. I wish to place on record the continued support of security agencies to the commission during elections. Particularly noteworthy is the high level of professional conduct of the agencies in the last two major elections in Edo and Ondo states.

“Indeed, Edo and Ondo have become the standard for securing elections in Nigeria. The professionalism and neutrality exhibited by the security agencies in the two elections have been widely praised nationally and internationally. We are confident that this will be replicated in Anambra state.”

Yakubu also said the commission is working to ensure peace during the elections with the cooperation of the political parties and the national peace committee.

“The commission is also working with the national peace committee under the leadership of our respected former head of state, general Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR, to bring all political parties and candidates for the Anambra state governorship election to commit to peace before, during and after the elections,” he said.