Janet Samuel, Abuja
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu,says the commission is set to release the timetable and the schedule of activities for the re-run and bye-election to fill the vacant position.
Professor Mahmoud, made the announcement yesterday at a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) alongside the swearing-in of newly appointed RECs to fill vacancies in nine states of the Federation.
According to the Chairman, these elections will be combined with bye-elections in constituencies where vacancies have been declared by Presiding Officers of legislative houses following the death or resignation of serving members of the National and State assemblies.
“So far, five vacancies have been declared for Surulere 1 Federal Constituency of Lagos State, Jalingo/Yorro/Zing Federal Constituency of Taraba State, Chibok State Constituency of Borno State, Chikun State Constituency of Kaduna State and Guma State Constituency of Benue State. Similarly, we want to assure citizens in six other constituencies that we are liaising with the National and State assemblies for the declaration of vacancies so that bye-elections can be conducted in earnest.”
The Chairman, while congratulating the newly sworn-in RECs, having four career staff of the Commission as the new RECs , highlighted the significant responsibility and sacred duty involved in conducting elections, urging them to be mindful of the challenges involved in their duties and to remain open to genuine criticisms.
“You must always be very firm in ensuring fairness and transparency to all. Let me make it clear to you from the outset that you must at all times be guided by the electoral legal framework, the code of conduct for RECs and your good conscience. You must also work closely with your field officers in the State, listening to their wise counsel, but always providing guidance, leadership and effective supervision.
” Similarly, I must warn you to understand and operate within the limits of your delegated powers and responsibilities. Our State offices are part and parcel of the Commission and we will not hesitate to deal with acts of defiance, indiscretion or transgression on the part of any REC”.
The Chairman announced the deployment of new RECs, including Abubakar Dambo Sarkin Pawa – Kebbi, Abubakar Ma’aji Ahmed – Borno, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha – Edo, Ehimeakhe Shaka Isah – Akwa Ibom, Mall. Aminu Idris – Kaduna, Mohammed Sadiq Abubakar – Kwara, Mrs Oluwatoyin O. Babalola – Ondo, Olubunmi O. Omoseyindemi – Ekiti, and Shehu L. Wahab – Nasarawa state.
Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn in Resident Electoral Commissioners, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola pledged their commitment to high ethical and professional standards and hard work in achieving the goal of the commission.
