Mahmood Yakubu, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stopped Sokoto Resident Electoral Commisioner from officiating the March 11 gubernitorial program.
At a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) on Saturday, Yakubu issued a stern warning to officials of the commission, vowing that some of them would not be part of Saturday’s governorship and state house of assembly elections over actions tantamount to misconduct.
“As we approach the governorship and state assembly elections, we must work harder to overcome the challenges experienced in the last election. Nothing else will be acceptable to Nigerians.
“All staff found to be negligent, whether they are regular or ad hoc officials, including collation and returning officers (ROs), must not be involved in forthcoming elections,” he had said.
In a letter dated March 6, 2023, and signed by Secretary to the Commission, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, INEC directed the administrative Secretary of the commission, Hauwa’u Kangiwa, to take full charge of its office in Sokoto with immediate effect.
“This is to inform you of the commission’s decision for you (Dr Nura Ali), Resident Electoral Commissioner, Sokoto State, to stay away from the commission’s office in Sokoto State immediately until furthermore notice.
“The administrative secretary is directed to take full charge of INEC, Sokoto State office with immediate effect.”
In another letter, Kangiwa was asked to liaise with the Supervisory National Commissioner, Professor Muhammad Sani Kala, for further clarifications.
“Please note that a National Commissioner (Major Gen. A. B. Alkali) and four (4) senior officials (names attached) are deployed to your State to assist you in the preparations and conduct of the forthcoming Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Election,” the letter read.
