LIVE UPDATES
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Lagos State has set plans for the replacement election for the former Surulere Senator, Femi Gbajabiamila that is scheduled to hold this Saturday.
The electoral body received sensitive materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria on Thursday for the preparation of Saturday's Surulere Federal Constituency I by-election.
This was disclosed by the INEC's Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Prof. Ayobami Salami while speaking to newsmen on the election plans on Saturday, assuring that the commission is fully prepared for the upcoming election.
Salami stated, “We have taken delivery of the sensitive materials today. We are in the last phase of the process of the by-election. We have taken the ballot papers and the results sheet for Saturday’s by-election. It is clear to everyone that we are ready for the election.”
He emphasized the commission's commitment to transparency by inviting representatives from political parties and security agencies to witness the process.
The state REC assured stakeholders that the sensitive materials are secure and intact, highlighting the commission's dedication to openness.
Salami expressed readiness to conduct a free, fair, and credible election on Saturday, urging the cooperation and support of all stakeholders.
He disclosed that the onward distribution of the materials from the state headquarters to the six wards and 258 polling units of the Surulere Federal Constituency I would commence on Friday.
With 12 candidates from various political parties contesting in the February 3 election, the by-election became necessary due to the resignation of the former occupant, Femi Gbajabiamila. Gbajabiamila, after winning, was appointed as Chief of Staff by President Bola Tinubu, leaving the seat vacant.
