Credible election, Buhari’s parting gift to Nigerians, says SGF

New REC assures Plateau of level-playing field during polls

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha, has assured Nigerians that President Muhammadu Buhari is prepared to give Nigerians the most credible election in the country’s history.

Mustapha told journalists in Yola, Adamawa State, at the weekend, during the wedding party of his daughter, Anna, that the President’s parting gift to Nigerians would be a credible election that people are going to remember him for.

“I want to assure Nigerians that on May 29, 2023, a new President will be sworn in office to take over from Buhari. I am already working on the transition programme; so Nigerians should be confident that the coming election will be credible,” he stated.

On his part, Buhari congratulated the SGF for giving out his daughter in marriage and urged the couple, Rebontop Nuhu and Anna, to emulate Mustapha’s humility.

Represented by the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mohammed Bello, the President said there is bright future ahead of the couple, adding that God’s word should be there guide for a successful home.

MEANWHILE, Plateau State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Oliver Agundu, has assured stakeholders in the state of a level-playing field in the 2023 elections.

He spoke, yesterday, at an interactive session with leaders and candidates of all political parties in the state working together for the success of the polls.

He said: “I am here to work with my team to deliver the most credible and transparent election in the history of Plateau, anchored on accountability and impartiality.”

“On no occasion should anyone seek to see me in my house or any unofficial venue for any business in connection with the office I occupy. I have taken an oath to serve the commission and the public in honesty and fairness to all. Thus, I beg you to help me achieve the purpose for which I am in Plateau at the moment,” he said.

Decrying the poor response of the public towards the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), he urged civil society organisations, political parties and those interested in the business of participatory democracy to join in sensitising the public on the need to get their PVCs, to avoid being disenfranchised.

The various speakers across political divides applauded the REC for restoring their confidence in the electoral process and pledged a harmonious working relationship.

The REC also answered questions bordering on the use of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the Electoral Act 2022, display of voter register, PVC collection, campaign monitoring, gender and inclusivity, as well as other concerns.