The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expanded the polling units in Enugu state from 2,958 to 4,147 polling units to create easy access to polling units in the state.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner for Enugu state, Dr. Emeka Ononamadu, told newsmen in Enugu on Friday that the new polling units were those converted from an existing 1,189 voting points.
He said further that the new polling units, which were created following strict adherence to the guidelines for conversion, was meant to curb overcrowding in polling units, also leading to lack of voters’ access.
“The guidelines which state that polling units should be located based on the following considerations: Must be in public places, preferably centrally located and accessible; and non-sectarian facilities like community halls, health centres, court premises, public recreation centres, amongst others,” he said.
The commissioner added that the guidelines made it clear that no polling unit would be located in private buildings, houses of traditional rulers, religious buildings, political party buildings or residence of government officials.
“Or any building which a voter may under any circumstance be denied access, except as prescribed by the law. No new polling unit should also be located in any building or facility that is in dispute or inaccessible to persons living with disabilities.”
(NAN)