By Balarabe Oshiafi
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has directed all Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) across the country to submit detailed plans aimed at improving voter access to polling units in their respective states.
The directive was issued by INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, during the opening remarks at the Commission’s regular consultative meeting with RECs held Tuesday in Abuja. The initiative, he said, is part of broader efforts to enhance electoral service delivery and ensure a seamless voting experience for all eligible citizens.
Prof. Yakubu highlighted key areas of focus that RECs must address in their plans, including the decongestion of overcrowded polling units, sanitization of the voters’ register, improved engagement with electoral stakeholders, and effective management of logistics and security during elections.
He stressed that RECs are expected to implement existing policies and procedures without waiting for further instructions from the Commission’s headquarters.
“INEC has already released the schedule for a number of electoral activities, including bye-elections, off-cycle governorship elections, and area council polls,” Yakubu noted. “As such, Resident Electoral Commissioners must intensify preparations and ensure the highest standards of efficiency and credibility.”
The INEC Chairman also announced that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise will soon resume nationwide. In Anambra State, the CVR will begin simultaneously in all 326 wards to facilitate the compilation of a fresh voters’ register ahead of the scheduled governorship election.
Additionally, Yakubu revealed that the Commission is finalizing a supplementary document to the Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, specifically addressing procedures for the review of election results. He assured that the supplement will be made publicly available on the Commission’s official website and platforms once completed.
INEC’s renewed push toward accessibility and transparency comes as the country prepares for key elections that will further test the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
