The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Thursday insisted that the 2023 general election will hold despite the security challenges in the country.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, stated this at a public presentation of the 2022-2026 strategic plan and the 2023 election project plan in Abuja.
He said, “We have carefully listened to the demand of Nigerians for seamless processes, particularly with regard to enhanced voter education, better distribution of voters to polling units, quality training of election personnel, functionality of electronic devices, improved logistics, prompt commencement of polls, availability of assistive devices for persons with disability at polling units and greater transparency in result management.
“We are also aware of the security challenges and their impact on the electoral process. We will continue to engage early and intensely with the security agencies to ensure the safety of our personnel and materials, accredited observers and the media and, above all, the voters.
“Clearly, these are challenging times but we are determined that elections must hold in 2023.
“However, this is a shared responsibility. INEC plays a critical role but the commission alone cannot deliver the elections we all desire.
“I, therefore, appeal to all Nigerians to join hands with us in ensuring that we make a success of the process.”