INEC Chairman Meets RECs, Highlights Key Electoral Activities and Challenges Ahead

Oru Leonard 

Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners today has emphasized the importance of Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in ensuring the success of upcoming elections and electoral activities. Speaking at the second quarterly consultative meeting with RECs in Abuja, Yakubu highlighted several key issues that require the attention of the commissioners.

INEC has announced dates for several elections and electoral activities, including:

– Bye-elections in 12 states on August 16, 2025
– Anambra State Governorship election on November 8, 2025
– Area Council elections in the FCT on February 21, 2026
– Ekiti Governorship election on June 20, 2026
– Osun State Governorship election on August 8, 2026

The Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), exercise will resume nationwide on August 18, 2025, for online pre-registration and August 25, 2025, for in-person registration. In Anambra State, the CVR will resume next week and will be held simultaneously in all 326 wards.

INEC is working on a supplement to the Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections 2022 to provide clarity on the review of declaration and return at elections, following various interpretations of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022.

RECs play a critical role in managing personnel and resources at the state level.

Yakubu said that INEC is committed to enhancing voter access to polling units and deepening engagement with electoral stakeholders.

“The commission is working to improve electoral service delivery and ensure the success of upcoming elections and electoral activities.”