By Simon Ebegbulem

BENIN—FOLLOWING the expiration of the tenure of elected chairmen and councillors in the 18 local government areas of Edo State this Friday, the state Independent Electoral Commission, EDSIEC, yesterday, gave reasons why it had not been able to conduct fresh elections in the 18 councils.

The commission explained that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, was yet to update the voters register in the state and also put the card readers in good condition so that they will be effectively used during the elections.

EDSIEC was supposed to conduct the council elections 90 days before the expiration of the tenure of the council chairmen. But Prof. Stanley Orobator, a Commissioner in the commission, while briefing members of the state House of Assembly, said they were aware of the constitutional provisions but were handicapped by the issues raised.