The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that nothing has changed about the February 18, 2023 presidential election date.
INEC National Commissioner and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, stated this in an exclusive inteeview with The Nation.
“The Commission will as soon as practicable meet to consider issues that may shape the 2023 general election and possibly consider the date for the release of the timetable and schedule of activities,” he said.
According to him, 2022 will be a busy and challenging year for the Commission.
“The conduct of a Presidential election is constitutionally circumscribed by Section 132(2) of the Constitution.
“However, the Commission is at liberty and has the discretion under Section 132(1) of the Constitution to fix the exact date for a Presidential election which it has done and nothing has changed.
“Presently, the Commission is preparing for the FCT Area Council Election that will hold on the 12th February 2022, eight pending bye-elections as well as Ekiti and Osun governorship elections.
“This year will be a busy and challenging year for the Commission.
“The Hon. Chairman has assured the nation that we are determined and have the courage to deliver on our mandate.
“We seek the cooperation and understanding of all the critical stakeholders for the conduct of free, fair and transparent elections,” Okoye said.