The release of a timetable for the 2015 general elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has continued to generate reactions from stakeholders in Anambra State.
Some of those who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Awka commended the Prof. Attahiru Jega-led commission, saying that the publication was a right step in the right direction.
In his contribution, former President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Dr Dozie Ikedife, said the early release of the timetable would reduce pressure on the people associated with elections.
“A level playing ground also includes the early release of the time-table. I think it is proper so that people can have a campaign plan, rather than being taken by surprise.
“It is the prerogative of INEC to release the timetable anytime they want, but I hope this one is not skewed to favour or disfavour somebody,” he added.
In his reaction, former Governor of Anambra, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, described the timing of the release as `apt’.
Ezeife, however, said that there was need to study the time-table to ensure that it achieved the best results.
“We, the politicians will study the timetable and make sure it is proper and that it will lead to the best result. If it is not, we will oppose it, but we cannot oppose it for nothing.
“We must know whether it is good for the presidential election to go with the governorship or whether it is good for the presidential poll to go with that of the National Assembly the same day or any other combination.
“It is important that we adopt a combination that gives the best result for our nascent democracy,” he stressed.
Ezeife advised the commission to improve on its performances, which according to him, had been commendable.
“There has been transparency in Jega’s elections even though there were attempts by people to rig, but he is not conniving with any rigger, so let him keep it up that way,’’ he said.
Also speaking, the Chief Press Secretary to the Anambra Governor, Mr Mike Udah, said the early release of the timetable showed that INEC was sensitive to calls for credible elections in the country.
“It shows that Jega is a serious-minded person who wants to make the job entrusted to him a success,’’ Udah said.
He urged the commission to conduct the polls in an atmosphere of peace and fairness, where the votes of the people will count.
