From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu has expressed fears over the off-cycle Governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States.
The INEC Chairman made the fear on Thursday in Abuja when he appeared before the Senate Committee on INEC with other Commissioners and observed that apart from a strain on state facilities, there is also the issue of governors using the power of incumbency to the detriment of other opposition parties and their candidates.
Speaking specifically on Edo state, Prof. Yakubu noted that despite the challenge of flooding, there is also the issue of security.
He further expressed worry over the alleged deployment of operatives of the Edo State Security Network ESSN to curse commotion during the September 21 polls.
While outlining the activities for the Edo and Ondo elections, the INEC boss said submission of all polling agents will be done 30 days before the respective elections.
Adding that 17 candidates will be contesting the governorship position in both states with Edo fielding the only female candidate in the entire polls.