In view of the rampaging covid-19 across the world and Nigeria, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has postponed its general election until further notice.
The election was billed to hold in Markurdi, Benue state on March 28, 2020.
A statement by Chairman, electoral committee, Prof. Jerry Agada said going ahead with election as scheduled could unnecessarily expose writers to the possibility of being infected by the virus.
According to the statement, “The ANA National Electoral Committee has been keenly monitoring the global Coronavirus pandemic and its impact on our dear country. The Committee is worried that the scope of Covid-19 continues to widen in the country while government has rolled out various measures (including an advice against public gathering) to contain its further spread.
“Following a thorough assessment of the unfolding scenario, and after due consultations with State Chairmen of ANA and other stakeholders, members of the Committee resolved that going ahead with the Emergency Congress Meeting/Election of national officials for the Association will unnecessarily expose writers to the possibility of being infected by the virus.
“Consequently, the Committee hereby announces the postponement of the Emergency Congress Meeting/Election earlier scheduled for March 28, 2020 in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, till such a time that would be deemed more appropriate for the exercise.”
The committee further assured ANA members that it will do everything possible to ensure that a new national leadership emerges for the association through a free, fair and transparent electoral process.
