By Gabriel Ameh
Abuja, October 15, 2025 — Nigeria’s electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has pledged to uphold and deepen the integrity of the nation’s democratic process following the exit of its former Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who bowed out of office earlier this month.
Acting Chairman of the Commission, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, made the declaration on Wednesday during the third quarterly consultative meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) held at the INEC Headquarters in Abuja.
In her remarks, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu described the meeting as timely, coming at a crucial moment of transition for the Commission, and assured Nigerians that the institution remains strong, stable, and focused on delivering credible elections.
“Professor Yakubu’s leadership left a legacy of innovation, institutional strength, and integrity. As custodians of that legacy, we are fully committed to sustaining public trust through openness, inclusion, and efficiency in our electoral processes,” she said.
Anambra Election in Focus
The Acting Chairman disclosed that INEC has completed 10 out of 13 key activities in preparation for the Anambra State Governorship Election, scheduled for November 8, 2025.
She noted that voter education, logistics, and security coordination are progressing smoothly, while non-sensitive materials have already been delivered to the state ahead of schedule.
“Our timetable remains sacrosanct. The Commission will not shift any date. Political parties are urged to adhere strictly to the campaign deadlines and conduct themselves responsibly,” Agbamuche-Mbu stated.
Area Council Elections and Continuous Voter Registration
INEC also announced significant progress toward the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council Elections, set for February 21, 2026. The elections will cover 68 constituencies, including six chairmanship seats and 62 councillorship wards across the Area Councils of Abaji, AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali.
Out of 13 planned activities, the Commission has already completed eight, with ongoing preparations for the publication of voter registers and final notices of poll.
The Acting Chairman further revealed that the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), which resumed nationwide on August 18, 2025 (online) and August 25, 2025 (in-person), has recorded impressive participation.
“The enthusiasm of Nigerians toward registration shows their faith in democracy and their desire to determine who governs them,” she remarked, adding that weekly registration statistics are being published on INEC’s website for transparency.
New Political Parties and Institutional Transparency
Providing updates on party registration, Agbamuche-Mbu disclosed that INEC has received 171 applications from associations seeking political party status. After careful assessment, 14 met the constitutional and legal requirements and have advanced to the next stage of approval.
“Our duty is not just to conduct elections but to protect the sanctity of the process itself. The Commission will continue to enforce compliance and transparency in all stages of party registration,” she affirmed.
INEC: Stronger After Transition
The Acting Chairman assured Civil Society Organisations of INEC’s continued partnership, stressing that collaboration remains central to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
“This meeting is a continuation of our open-door policy. Civil society groups play a critical role in ensuring inclusiveness, civic education, and accountability. We welcome your feedback and support as we consolidate the gains of past reforms,” she added.
Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu concluded by reaffirming INEC’s commitment to credible, transparent, and inclusive elections, pledging that the Commission would remain impartial and professional in all its undertakings.
By Media360Impact Newsroom
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