Moses Ofodeme
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has released additional 209 machines to five South Eastern States, Lagos and Kano where their are serious pressure from those itching to register for voters cards.
The INEC, said it took the decision after receiving reports from States indicating an unprecedented surge in the number of citizens wishing to register as voters and the challenges they face across the country.
In some States, the sudden turnout of prospective registrants is overwhelming.
The Commission had to convene an urgent meeting with all the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) Thursday 9th June 2022 to review the situation so that eligible Nigerians who wish to register are able to do so.
The necessity to urgently deploy more voter enrolment machines to ease the congestion at the registration centres was identified as a priority.
The Commission said it will monitor the situation over the next few days to review the progress of the exercise.
“Every step will be taken and all options will be explored to ensure that eligible Nigerians are given the opportunity to register as voters” INEC said and appealed for patience and understanding of all citizens.
“Every Nigerian who is 18 years of age and above has the constitutional right to register and vote in any part of the country he/she resides without let or hinderance.
“The sudden surge is an affirmation of the increasing confidence Nigerians have in our electoral process. The Commission will continue to ensure that this confidence is sustained.” INEC assured