The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the extension of voting hours in certain areas of Edo State where the governorship election process began on Saturday night.
In a statement issued from the National Headquarters of the Electoral Commission in Abuja, the electoral body said it was monitoring the ongoing election from its courtroom. While many polling stations across the state reported early commencement of voting, there were also instances of delayed commencement of voting in some locations.
βTo ensure that no voter is disenfranchised, the Commission wishes to reiterate that, in accordance with our Rules and Guidelines, voting will be extended if it starts late,β said Mohammed Haruna, National Commissioner and Member of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
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The extension will allow all voters who arrive at polling stations before 2:30 p.m. to cast their votes, regardless of how long it takes. The Electoral Commission has instructed its office in Edo State to provide adequate power supply from standby generators if necessary, to ensure that polling stations or counting centers in the affected districts can continue operations without interruption.
This decision comes as part of INEC’s efforts to maintain the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in the Edo State governorship election.
The Commission continues to urge voters and election officials to adhere to all guidelines and protocols during the extended voting period.
EDO DECIDES: Electoral Commission extends voting hours in some polling stations first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.