Prof Attahiru Jega's appearance before the senate today

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Attahiru Jega appeared before the Senate on Wednesday to demonstrate and defend the workings of the Permanent Voter Cards and Card Reader Machines.

Jega, said, the Commission was ready for the elections before it’s postponement.

Attahiru Jega said the National Security Adviser, retired Colonel Dasuki Sambo, and the Service Chiefs forced the postponement of the polls.

That notwithstanding, the six weeks period of extension for the election will further ensure free and fair elections.

Jega said the PVCs and the card readers are in accordance with the Electoral Laws and that  the Card Reader Machines have a long lasting battery that it can work for about 12 hours without electricity.


He also said the card readers have been tested in some states across the country.

Jega tested the use of the PVC and the Card Reader Machines with the PVC of Senator Bukura Yerima.

As soon as the PVC was slotted into the Card Reader Machine, it displayed the photograph of Yerima, who is from Zamfara State.

Explaining why the card readers are essential for this election he said the major reason is to avoid multiple voting, he said over four million Nigerians have engaged in multiple voting.

Jega added that the Commission will engage not less than 100,000 adhoc staff for the the elections.