Fisayo Akinduro, Osogbo
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Mixed reactions have continued to trail the postponement of February 16 general elections as some electorate in Osun state expressed dissatisfaction about the INEC’s decision.
Some people who spoke with The Hope expressed their shock, relief and how inappropriate the postponement is at a crucial time like this in Nigeria.
It will be recalled that the INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu at the early hours of Saturday announced the postponement of the general elections.
In Osogbo, Osun state capital, most people were not aware of the development as people were seen trekking to their polling units and some were erecting canopies and also preparing to exercise their civic responsibilities.
The RAC centre was deserted as Corps members were seen returning back to their various homes.
Some of the Corps members who spoke with The Hope under anonymity expressed their anger and stress encountered over the sudden change.
A trader, Abdul Adedipe said the news came as a surprise and didn’t believe until he got to the polling unit.
His words:”I thought it was a joke when my neighbour told me about the postponement this morning, I had to leave for my polling unit to confirm it.”
He said it is only God that understand why it is being postponed and assured of voting even if postponed till next year.
Also speaking, a car dealer, Akinjide Akinnola, said it’s so sad and unfortunate but INEC should be commended for stopping the process to avoid inconclusiveness.
He said the postponement has no political undertone and people should not politicize it.
Akinnola said humans are not saints, that the INEC boss and his team are only trying to make both ends meet.
A civil servant, who identified himself as Mr Bashiru said we should have confidence in INEC, saying it is better to halt the election than proceeding to be inconclusive.
He said although lots of resources have been wasted, Nigerians should have faith and pray for peace in the country.
A petty trader at the Orisumbare market, Iyabo Aluko said the election has affected her Saturday’s sales and doesn’t have the strength to display her goods anymore.
A driver of the popular mini bus, korope, Tunde Rafiu said this sudden change will affect his sales because people are not coming out.
He said INEC overnight decision is not good and has affected everybody and every sector.
Also speaking, Mr Olaniyi Akeem said he traveled all the way from Lagos to Osogbo on Friday night to exercise his civic responsibilities but was disappointed this morning to hear about the postponement of the election.
