The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its readiness to conduct outstanding by-elections and resume the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise across the country. INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, made this known during a quarterly consultative meeting with leaders of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Abuja.
Professor Yakubu revealed that the commission had reached a point where it could resume both critical electoral activities. “I am glad to announce that the commission is now in a position to conduct the bye-elections and to resume CVR nationwide,” he said.
He explained that INEC held a crucial meeting on Tuesday to finalise logistics and timelines for both the by-elections and voter registration exercise. Full details, he added, would be made public within 24 hours. Yakubu also called on CSOs to lend their usual support in ensuring the success of the upcoming exercises.
The INEC Chairman further updated stakeholders on the commission’s preparations for the Anambra State governorship election, which is scheduled to take place on November 8, 2025. He also highlighted plans for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, set for February 21, 2026.
He encouraged civil society groups to actively monitor and participate in the electoral processes and to remain engaged as INEC rolls out its activities. “The commission will continue to update you on these and other electoral activities. I urge you to equally monitor these activities,” Yakubu stated.
In addition, Yakubu urged CSOs interested in observing the Anambra governorship election to submit their accreditation applications promptly once the portal opens. Early submission, he said, would help INEC process and distribute observer tags well ahead of the polls.
Speaking on behalf of the CSOs, Faith Nwadishi, Executive Director of the Centre for Transparency Advocacy, welcomed the updates and urged the National Assembly to accelerate the process of amending the Electoral Act.
Nwadishi emphasized that completing the amendment before the 2027 general elections would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s electoral framework and address lingering challenges from past elections.
She praised INEC’s proactive stance in recommending reforms to the National Assembly and acknowledged the various innovations introduced by the commission to enhance electoral credibility and transparency.
The meeting underscored the ongoing collaboration between INEC and civil society, which continues to play a crucial role in promoting participatory democracy and safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
