As Nigeria prepares for a critical electoral season leading to the 2027 general elections, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has sounded the alarm over conflicting interpretations of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 — a provision that allows for the review of election results.
Speaking during INEC’s second quarterly meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), Prof. Yakubu revealed that the Commission is finalizing supplementary regulations to clarify how declarations and returns during elections can be reviewed — a move aimed at averting future legal and procedural crises.
“The Commission is working on a supplement to the Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections 2022 to provide clarity on the review of declarations and returns. Once adopted — possibly this week — they will be published online for public awareness,” Yakubu stated.
He emphasized the pivotal role of RECs, reminding them that their responsibilities are full-time and not just limited to general election periods. “Your work does not begin and end with national elections. You are full-time commissioners with critical duties all year round,” he said.
Yakubu also called for more proactive measures at the state level, particularly in enhancing voter access, improving logistics, and engaging with stakeholders. “Some of you are already doing this, but we must intensify efforts,” he noted. “You don’t need large conferences to train your staff. Practical, localized initiatives can make a big difference.”
He outlined the commission’s packed electoral calendar over the next year, which includes:
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Bye-elections in 12 states – August 16, 2025
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Anambra governorship election – November 8, 2025
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FCT Area Council elections – February 21, 2026
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Ekiti governorship election – June 20, 2026
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Osun governorship election – August 8, 2026
Yakubu stressed that preparations for these polls are already in motion, including the release of election timetables and schedules, as well as the approval of campaign activities and primaries in key states.
On voter registration, he announced that Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) will resume nationwide on August 18, 2025, for online pre-registration and August 25 for in-person registration. However, Anambra State will kick off earlier, with CVR beginning next week across all 326 wards — ensuring compliance with the 90-day deadline before the governorship election.
Prof. Yakubu concluded with a warning and a call to action: “You can only effectively discharge your responsibilities when you are knowledgeable and committed. This is a multi-stakeholder task, and INEC must play its part effectively.”
