Buhari, Atiku Express Displeasure Over Poll Shift

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines, News Saturday, February 16th, 2019

(AFRICAN EXAMINER) – The two frontline Presidential candidates of the postponed election – President Muhammadu Buhari of the ruling APC and Atiku Abubakar of the opposition PDP have expressed displeasure over the shift of the exercise.

The duo expressed their reservations via series of tweets Saturday morning..

In his tweets, President Buhari said ‘’I am deeply disappointed that despite the long notice given and our preparations both locally and internationally, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) postponed the Presidential and National Assembly elections within hours of its commencement.

“Many Nigerians have traveled to various locations to exercise their right to vote, and international observers are gathered.

“INEC themselves have given assurances, day after day and almost hour after hour that they are in complete readiness for the elections. We and all our citizens believed them.

“This administration has ensured that we do not interfere in any way with the work of INEC except to ensure that all funds were released to the commission.

“We now urge INEC to ensure not only that materials already distributed are safe and do not get into wrong hands, but that everything is done to avoid the lapses that resulted in this unfortunate postponement, and ensure a free and fair election on the rescheduled dates.

“While I reaffirm my strong commitment to the independence, neutrality of the electoral umpire and the sanctity of the electoral process and ballot, I urge all political stakeholders and Nigerians to continue to rally round INEC at this trying national moment in our democratic journey.

“I, therefore, appeal to all Nigerians to refrain from all civil disorder and remain peaceful, patriotic and united to ensure that no force or conspiracy derail our democratic development.

“I have decided to move back to Abuja to ensure that the 14.00 hrs meeting called by INEC with all stakeholders is successful’’.

On his own, Atiku tweeted, urging his supporters to ‘’maintain the peace and be law abiding. Do not react to this provocation with anger, violence or any action that might be exploited by those who do not want this election to hold’’

The PDP candidate further tweeted ‘’Remain calm. We will overcome this. You can postpone an election, but you cannot postpone destiny.

‘’Please come out to vote on Saturday, 23 February and Saturday, 9 March respectively

‘’Frustrate those who do not want this election to hold by coming out in very large numbers. That is the best antidote to their plans’’.

Meanwhile, the stakeholders meeting to be addressed by the INEC Chairman, Prof Yakubu Mahamud is slated for 2pm today in Abuja.