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By Gabriel Okoro, Abuja
Independent National Electoral Commission says the general elections will commence by 8am on Saturday February 23rd across 36 States of the country with Abuja inclusive.
Delivering his opening remarks on Friday in Abuja, Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu appealed to voters to be peaceful as they carry out their civic right tomorrow.
Prof. Yakubu said persons without Permanent Voter Cards will not be allowed to vote.
He noted that gadgets and other electronic devices will be allowed but not in the polling booth.
The INEC umpire warned that only the Commission is in position to announce results. He explained further that collation will take place in various local government areas while final collation of the presidential election will be done at the national collation centre at the International Conference Centre Abuja.
He said the national collation centre will be opened by 6pm on Sunday while the Situation room will open by 6pm today (Friday).
On his part, Acting Inspector General of Police, Muhammed Adamu reiterated that election materials are all secured.
Adamu assured maximum security in every polling units. He said at least three security personnel will be there.
“These personnels will not be armed but our personnel that will be patrolling will be armed to deal with offenders.”
He said ballot box snatchers will be arrested and prosecuted.
According to him, even when the results are announced, strategies will be put in place to contain any violence.
Responding to questions, the INEC chairman said under age voting is illegality.
He advised that when such is observed in polling units, security personnel in those polling units should be notified.