By Milcah Tanimu

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmoud Yakubu, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to conducting a credible governorship election in Edo State, despite the damage caused by last Friday’s heavy downpour to critical infrastructure at the INEC office.

Yakubu assured that the affected facilities would be repaired or replaced, emphasizing that the Commission was fully prepared for the upcoming governorship poll in Edo State. He mentioned that since it is an off-cycle election, INEC would borrow equipment from neighboring states to ensure the smooth conduct of the exercise.

During an inspection of the damaged facilities in Benin City, Yakubu underscored the importance of conducting the election in INEC’s own facilities rather than renting external ones. He expressed confidence that the repairs would be completed before the election, stating that the Commission had three months and three weeks left to prepare.

Yakubu also highlighted the commencement of the Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) and the collection of Permanent Voters Cards (PVC), emphasizing the readiness of INEC for both the Edo and Ondo governorship elections.

Regarding the damaged facilities, Yakubu described the incident as an act of God but assured that it would not hinder the electoral process. He reiterated the Commission’s determination to ensure a seamless election process.

Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, echoed Yakubu’s sentiments, referring to the flood damage as a “blessing in disguise” that has better prepared them for the election.