INEC Unveils 5 Years Strategic Plan, 2023 Election Project Plan. ….As NUJ Calls for Capacity building of the Press Corps
Oru Leonard
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has unveiled the 22022 to 2026 and Election project plan for the 2023 general election.
In his remarks the Chairman, INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made the pledge on Thursday, 21st April, 2022 who assured that the 2023 general election which comes up in the ten months time will be free and fair. He said the conduct of the 2023 General Elections would be guided strictly by the provisions of the 2022 Electoral Act which he assured contained a number of progressive provisions that would enhance the capacity of the commission to conduct free and fair elections next year.
Prof Yakubu disclosed that the elections will be conducted for 1,491 constituencies nationwide made up of 1 presidential constituency, 109 senatorial districts, 360 federal constituencies, 28 governorship elections and 993 state constituencies, which will involve an estimated one million electoral officials.
The Commission also assurance of credible and timely elections against the backdrop of insecurity and challenges in the country.
“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 election 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.
“Let once again reiterate that the dates for all activities in the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2023 general election are firm and fixed and all stakeholders are advised to take this into consideration in planning their activities.” INEC Boss stated.
He thanked partners and stakeholders who are also supporting INEC to run credible elections in Nigeria.
Speaking, The Chairman, NUJ- FCT Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Ogbeche applauded the efforts of INEC and called for training of Journalists covering INEC to further build the required capacity and understanding of the 2022 Electoral act. “This will enhance better reportage” he stressed.
