The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has shifted the governorship election slated for next Saturday by two weeks, citing the current security challenges in Adamawa State as reason.

Confirming the development, the Resident Electoral Commission in the state, Barr.Kassim Gana Gaidam said the election will now hold on February 4.

He said: “In view of the prevailing security challenges in Adamawa State, and after consultations with relevant stakeholders in the state, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja has decided to postpone the governorship election in the state by two weeks.

“The governorship election will now hold on Saturday, February 4, 2012, instead of January 21st, 2012 as earlier scheduled.

“INEC reassures all Adamawa State residents of its determination to conduct free, fair and credible election in the state.The commission are working very closely with all stakeholders, including security agencies, to ensure a conducive environment for the conduct of the election.

In a swift reaction Governor Murtala Nyako has described the postponement as a welcome development. Nyako who applauded the decision taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), however, said they were taken by surprise as according to him normalcy has since returned in the state.

Also commenting, the ANPP candidate, Alh.Usman Ahmad Belel said the measure was commendable considering the prevailing security challenges being faced in the state. He also said it was a good omen as INEC wanted to ensure hitch free elections.

Also in Ekiti State, the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) has again postponed the local government election till February 4.