The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has
mandated the use of face masks for individuals before they can
exercise their franchise in the forthcoming elections in Edo and
Ondo states.
This is part of measures by the Commission to ensure the safety
of voters ahead of the Edo, and Ondo governorship polls amid the
COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is mandatory for every voter to wear a face mask or face
covering without which the voter would not be allowed to vote,” the
Chairman of the electoral body, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, said at
the briefing of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 in
Abuja Thursday.
The INEC boss while giving insight into the nature of face masks
voters are expected to wear during the elections, said the
electorates do not need surgical masks to cast their ballots.
He explained that “a face covering will be sufficient for a
voter to be accredited to vote.”
‘Two Queues’
To ensure physical distance during the elections, Professor
Mahmood said INEC is introducing two queues in the polling
areas.
“One outside the polling area and the other, inside the polling
area,” Professor Mahmood said while stressing that “within the
inner queue, voters must maintain the mandatory two-meter or six
feet distance and we clearly marked this in one of the by-elections
we conducted recently.”
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In the polling units, voters must also avoid touching surfaces
or leaning on walls, the INEC boss added.
‘Obeying All Directions’
For voters who have a high temperature, cough, or are sneezing,
the former Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund
(TETFund) said there is a protocol by the body.
“They must obey all directions from officials to stop other
voters from getting infected,” said the INEC boss.
‘Procedure For Evacuation’
Professor Mahmood Yakubu, addressing a press conference in Abuja on
February 14, 2020. Photos: Channels TV/ Sodiq
Adelakun.
In case of emergencies, INEC also has a “procedure for
evacuation” and will be collaborating with health officials in the
different states, according to the former lecturer.
“In Edo State, for instance, we are working with the State
Response team,” he explained.
The Edo Governorship election will take place September 19th,
2020 while that of Ondo State is billed for the 10th of
October.
Read more https://swordpress.com.ng/2020/09/11/edo-ondo-elections-no-face-masks-no-voting-says-inec-chairman/