Yakubu added that the perennial problem of logistics and security challenges also led to late commencement of voting in some places
He said that the security challenges include thugs attack in Delta and Katsina states and banditry in Niger.
He said there were also unfolding situations in Abia and Imo states.
“In Abia, the deployment is taking place late to the polling units.
“The commission is aware and we are assuring voters in Abia that no matter how late we deploy to the polling units, if voters are on the queue before 2:30pm, they will vote no matter how long it takes.
“We are also aware of the situation in Imo, in respect of four LGAs — Okigwe, Oguta, Osu, and Olu.
“There were issues in all 11 wards in the whole of Osu. In the whole of Orlu, six wards out of 11. In the case of Okigwe, five wards out of 11. In the case of Oguta, it is more widespread,” Yakubu added.
Yakubu said that he had a discussion with the Inspector-General of Police and the military to escort INEC officials to all the four locations.
“I take it that voting would have commenced in some of these difficult places.
“But if it doesn’t, I will assure voters in those locations that elections will hold and they will not be disenfranchised.”
Yakubu said that INEC have been observing and receiving reports on the election nationwide and was determined to ensure that the elections held and are credible.
He said that the commission would continue to brief Nigerians on the elections, until collation of results commenced.
The New Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the INEC Chairman is expected to brief newsmen again at 4pm.
