THE governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has warned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against delaying the general elections in 2023 under the pretext of security, stating that doing so would be extremely detrimental to the Nigerian people.
Ortom stated this yesterday when paying Sam Egwu, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in charge of Benue, a courtesy call.
He recommended staggered elections in tense areas rather than a general election postponement to allow for adequate security deployment on a date designated for such locations.
“A statement was purported to have come from INEC about the fears of 2023 elections concerning security. Our prayer is that whatever happens, let us go ahead with the elections because Nigerians, Benue State people are equally waiting for it,” the governor said.
Ortom said the enemies of Nigeria should not be allowed to take advantage of the security challenges confronting the country, insisting that elections must be conducted.
“If there are specific areas where insecurity is intense and there are problems, they should work towards shifting the elections (in those areas) and when the other places have concluded, they should go back there… I believe that can work but postponing the elections will be a great disservice to the people of Benue State and our country Nigeria,” he said.
The governor also urged INEC to extend by one week, the duration for the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) across the country.
