Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission [INEC] has made what it calls “slight amendments” to the election process to help ensure it’s free and fair. The changes come as Nigerians prepare to go to the polls on Saturday to elect a president.
INEC has directed that the results of each polling unit be displayed immediately after the vote is cast so the candidates will be able to tabulate their votes even before a national announcement is made.
The chair of the electoral commission, Attahiru Jega, met Wednesday [4/13/11] with the state electoral commissioners and received pledges from them to comply with the changes.
INEC also announced that more security personnel will be deployed countrywide.
Supporters of President Goodluck Jonathan are delighted that members of opposition parties trying to support a single candidate were unable to agree. No serious challenger will be mounted against Jonathan because opposition votes will be split.
Having no main opposition candidate may help clear the way for Mr. Jonathan to be re-elected on Saturday, April 16.
VOA reporter Chinedu Offor is on assignment in Nigeria. To hear his interview with Kim Lewis, click on the link below.