In their separate reactions to the sudden postponement of general elections slated to commence yesterday, Saturday 16th February, 2019, both Sokoto State governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and his predecessor, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, have advised Nigerians to be patient and calm.
Tambuwal, who said the action was simply a suspension of the right of the Nigerian citizens to execute their franchise of electing leaders of their choice, added that, it also calls to question, the capacity and sincerity of the APC-led Federal Government to deliver a true democratic process for the nation.
The governor, however, expressed appreciation for the support and solidarity of all the people in Sokoto State and enjoined them to remain steadfast in the pursuit of democracy and commitment to the electoral process.
While insisting that INEC should compensate the citizens for this hitch by ensuring free and fair elections for the restoration of the people’s trust and confidence, Tambuwal admonished Nigerians to remain gallant in their quest to return the nation once again to the part of greatness by voting out the APC.
His predecessor, Senator Wamakko, however, noted that Nigerians should take the new date in good fate.
Wamakko, in a statement by his spokesperson, Bashir Rabe Mani, said despite that the news came to Nigerians as a great shock, he advised that; the development should not be a reason for any mistrust in the electoral umpire.
“Although the news is extremely unpalatable to Nigerians, we should all take it in good faith and remain lawful, resolute and committed towards sustaining the invaluable peace and unity of Nigeria.
“A lot of arrangements have been made for the polls by the commission and other relevant agencies, while funds have been sunk into such plans.
“Yet, Nigerians should remain optimistic, as well as pray fervently to ensure that the unexpected development becomes a good omen for the nation’s democratic journey.
“I must, however, urge INEC to immediately swing into action, do the needful and ensure the timely and adequate deployment of men and materials, in line with the new dates for the polls.
