News
INEC Set For Better Polls …In Bayelsa, Kogi
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it would display its improved election processes in the upcoming governorship elections in Kogi and Bayelsa.
This is contained in the commission’s bulletin issued on Thursday in Abuja.
The bulletin said that the acting Chairman of INEC, Hajiya Amina Zakari, stated this at the public presentation of the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room report on the 2015 general elections, in Abuja.
Zakari said that the commission would apply lessons learnt from previous elections in raising the bar during the Kogi and Bayelsa polls.
“In conducting elections in both states, the commission will apply lessons learnt from the previous elections beginning with the stand-alone governorship elections in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun states, and the general elections,” she said.
She said that INEC would also carry out Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in both states.
She also assured that registered voters would get their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) while provision would be made for voters’ transfers in the states.
The INEC boss called for continued support from development partners and civil society organisations towards improving the country’s electoral process.
“INEC in partnership with key stakeholders in the political parties, security and civic organizations, will strive to ensure that both elections in Kogi and Bayelsa are transparent and well run,” she said.
She warned against electoral malpractice in both states and said that INEC would continue to drive transparency and effectiveness in the country’s electoral processes.
“Any INEC official found wanting at the tribunals will be punished to the full extent of the law,” she added.
Zakari disclosed that the commission’s transitional plans were needed to lay foundation for the future.
‘’Some of the commission’s efforts toward improvement of electoral processes include continued drive for improvement of INEC internal processes, as well as staff re-orientation and training.
‘’Others are the push for recommendations to the National Assembly on electoral reforms such as ballot access restrictions to reduce voter confusion and diaspora voting.
‘’It also includes increased use of technology on the card reader and e-Track processes introduced in 2015 and improved internal and external communications to drive improved awareness with the public and staff,’’ she said.
The Rivers State Government has inaugurated a Central Planning Committee to organize the celebration of the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day (AFRD) in the State.
The committee was formally inaugurated by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabraba in Port Harcourt, last Thursday.
Dr Anabraba who also serves as Chairman of the Committee
highlighted the State Government’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices of Nigeria’s fallen heroes who laid down their lives for the nation’s peace and unity.
“These heroes have given their lives for the security and peace of our nation and deserve to be celebrated. The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an opportunity to show our gratitude for their sacrifice,” he said.
Dr. Anabraba further extended recognition to all Security Agencies in the State, emphasizing the importance of the event in appreciating their contributions to national security and sovereignty.
The annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed on January 15 across the country is dedicated to remember Nigeria’s departed soldiers and honouring the nation’s veterans.
