From Umar DanKano, Yola
Following the occupation of some villages and towns in Adamawa State, The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended the distribution of Permanent Voters Cards in some of these towns.
Our correspondent in Yola reported that the affected local governments are: Madagali, Michika, Maiha, Mubi North and Mubi South local government areas of the state for security reasons.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) to the state, Kasim Gaidam stated this shortly after a meeting with security agencies, National Orientation Agency (NOA) and political parties executives in Yola preparatory to the October 11 bye- election in state.
Meanwhile at the meeting, it was unanimously agreed that the distribution of the Permanent Voter Cards should be suspended in Boko Haram controlled areas of the state.
This is contained in a communiqué jointly signed by Gaidam and the State Commissioner of Police, Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG John Abakasanga and made available to journalists in Yola yesterday.
According to the communiqué, “the distribution of cards should be suspended in Madagali, Michika, Maiha, Mubi North and Mubi South local government areas for security reasons”.
It stated that the stakeholders expressed concern over the worsening security situation in five local government areas that made up the Adamawa North Senatorial District as Michika and Madagali have already being captured by the insurgents.
It added that tension has ensued in both Mubi and Maiha as residents in the trouble areas were trooping out of the areas in thousands to find refuge.
The statement however indicated that the resolution was subject to approval by the INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega.
