Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has emphasized the importance of non-partisanship and integrity among commission staff in the upcoming Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi governorship elections. This directive was issued during Yakubu’s visit to various INEC offices to review preparations for the November 11 elections, as reported in the commission’s bulletin in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Yakubu highlighted INEC’s commitment to conducting credible elections in the states. He reminded the commission that it does not support any candidate in the election, stressing that INEC’s role is to ensure the people of Bayelsa and Imo States freely choose their governors, with the commission safeguarding the people’s choice.
Yakubu also urged Electoral Officers (Eos) in both states to ensure the full activation of all Registration Area Centres (RACs) in time for a smooth election process. He expressed the commission’s determination to ensure that poll officials effectively fulfill their responsibilities on election day. Additionally, a refresher training is scheduled for November 10, supplementing the trainings conducted over the weekend.
The INEC Chairman, accompanied by National Commissioners and the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) of both states, also met with members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICESS) in both states. The primary goal of these meetings was to assess their readiness and discuss significant security concerns, including the protection of voters, election personnel, materials, collation centers, and transport providers.
Yakubu’s visit included a tour of the commission’s facilities in Yenagoa to inspect the availability of non-sensitive materials required for the elections. This visit underscores INEC’s efforts to ensure that the upcoming gubernatorial elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi are conducted with the highest standards of fairness and integrity.