By Ezeocha Nzeh
In preparation for resumption of activities ahead of the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday released guideline to be strictly followed by staff and visitor to the commission
The commission in the guideline, which was made available to newsmen by the Director of Voter Education and Publicity (VEP), Oluwole Osaze Uzzi emphasized the importance of wearing face mask to gain entrance to the commission, warning that no staff or visitor will be allowed access into its offices without putting on a face mask.
INEC explained that the guideline which will also be enforced at its offices nationwide is aimed at helping it protect both the staff and its visitor as it carries out activities in the commission following the easing of lock down by government.
INEC, in the released guidelines, also announced the prohibition of congregational prayers in the Mosque and Chapel for the time being
According to guideline, “All offices of the Commission will be decontaminated before resumption and periodically to ensure environmental safety. Staff of our Facility Managers and INEC cleaners shall be trained on continuous disinfection/decontamination procedures.
“The use of face masks is compulsory throughout the offices of the Commission, for all staff, visitors and contractors at all times. Staff are encouraged to have their own face masks and will be guided on the use of masks. No staff/visitor should be allowed into the Commission without face masks.
“Hand sanitizers will be provided at all entrances, exits and offices of the Commission. Meanwhile, staff are encouraged to have their personal hand sanitizers. Office clerks will be given guidelines on handling/decontamination of mails and files.”
The commission however assured that fund will be made available to state offices to procure hand sanitizers for use in the office premises. These guidelines, though consistent with those issued by the federal government/Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, also aim to reflect peculiarities of the Commission nationwide.
“The guidelines cover areas such as hygiene and personal health, sanitation within office premises, distancing measures, and related matters for the headquarters and state offices of the Commission.
“The INEC Clinic and sickbay staff will be provided with and trained on the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and early detection of COVID-19 symptoms. Specific guidelines will be made available to relevant staff handling the thermometer at the entrances on early detection of suspected cases.
“Staff has responsibility to urgently report any suspected case with symptoms of the virus (cough, fever etc) to the officer-in-charge at the sickbay at the headquarters, or any designated higher authority in other locations,” the Commission warned
