The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has shifted the Kogi and Bayelsa states governorship elections earlier scheduled for November 2 to November 16.
The shift is the sequel to the request by the government and people of Bayelsa that November 2 is a date for the state’s annual thanksgiving established by an Act of State House of Assembly.
Festus Okoye, INEC National Commissioner in charge of publicity announced the change in date in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.
READ ALSO: Why we excluded ANDP from Bayelsa governorship poll – INEC
“It will be recalled that on 9th April 2019, the Independent National Electoral Commission (lNEC) released the timetable and schedule of activities for the Kogi and Bayelsa governorship elections. The Commission fixed 2nd November for the elections to hold in both States.
READ ALSO: INEC to arraign university lecturers in Akwa Ibom for meddling in 2019 elections
“However, the Commission has received several appeals from the Government, State Assembly, elders, religious leaders, traditional rulers and other critical stakeholders in Bayelsa state, that the election date coincides with the State’s Annual Thanksgiving Day which is backed by the Bayelsa State Thanksgiving Day Law 2012.
“After careful consideration of the appeals, the Commission at its regular weekly meeting held today Thursday 16th May decided to
shift the governorship elections in Kogi and Bayelsa States to Saturday 16th November 2019.
“The timelines for all other activities leading to the elections have also been adjusted to align with the new date. The amended timetable and schedule of activities for the elections is attached to this press release”, the statement read.
