The Yobe State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC); has cancelled
December 5, 2020 Local Government elections over resurgence in
coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Announcing the postponement Thursday in Damaturu, Chairman of
Commission, Dr. Mamman Mohammed disclosed: “Regrettably, our state has
recently recorded a slight increase in COVID-19 cases, confirmed in
some Local Government Areas, where elections be held.
According to him; “Our earlier preparedness to conduct the elections
in substantial compliance with the COVID -19 protocols and guidelines
as prescribed by WHO.”
“Regrettably, our State has recently recorded a slight resurgence of
the COVID-19 with two cases confirmed.”
He explained that the state government is on top of the situation, as
the state Ministry of Health has taken measures to identify and
isolate persons who have been in contact with the incidence cases.
“We are confident that the resurgence of the virus will be contained
as it was prevented earlier by the administration of Governor Mai Mala
Buni.”
On conditions conduct council elections, he said: “We have received
policy documents from both the Independent National electoral
Commission (INEC) and the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC),
on instructive information conduct council election under COVID-19
pandemic.”
He said both the INEC policy document and NCDC guidelines contained
elaborated information that will require a resolve to be diligent and
responsible in conducting the proposed elections in healthy
communities.
He added that after due consultation with stakeholders, they are
compelled to re-adjust the date of their proposed elections.
He said the postponement, was to prevent further spread of COVID-19
pandemic across the state.
“The need to be proactive in saving one life in Yobe State is a
compelling and cogent reason to reschedule council election in
accordance with the electoral Act,” he noted, stating that the
election, has shifted to hold on February 27, 2021.
He urged stakeholders to appreciate the electoral development and
support the Commission conduct a free, fair and transparent council
elections under COVID-19 preventive protocols.
