Group bemoans economic cost of polls postponement

Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

The Women’s Situation Room Nigeria (WSRN) has expressed concern over the timing of the decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to shift the elections few hours to the commencement of voting. National Coordinator of WSRN, Dr. Joy Onyesoh on Sunday, stated that the last-minute decision by INEC comes at great human and financial costs not only to the national economy, but individual voters. Onyesoh highlighted the ripple effects that the postponement has on the nation, noting that most observer groups had already deployed staff to the field, citizens had travelled to exercise their rights, and schools had been shut down because of the process. She stated further that the shift has a disproportionate impact on women candidates, who typically have fewer resources than their male counterparts, and on women voters, who often bear the responsibility for childcare and may find it difficult to travel a second time to exercise their franchise. While describing INEC’s action as a setback for democracy, Onyesoh said that “we call on all Nigerians to remain calm and peaceful. We also call on all political parties to disseminate the message of peace to all their supporters. “We encourage the media to disseminate the information of the postponement of the elections in the local languages in a conflict-sensitive manner. “We urge our traditional and religious leaders to use their positions of influence to educate their followers and prevail on them for sustained peace throughout this electoral process. “To the women of Nigeria, we urge you not to be discouraged but continue to play your peace-building role within your communities to ensure that the elections are carried out peacefully. “This reinforces the importance of the work we are doing on the ground. We will not be deterred but will keep advocating and pressing forward.”