By Oguntoye Efe Richard -IT
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has intensified preparations for the forthcoming elections with a high-level stakeholders' meeting to strengthen confidence in the electoral process and ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible poll.
The meeting brought together representatives of political parties, security agencies, civil society organisations, election observers, and other critical stakeholders to review the commission's preparedness and address issues that could affect the conduct of the elections.
Speaking during the engagement, INEC officials reaffirmed the commission's commitment to delivering free, fair, and credible elections, emphasising that all necessary measures were being put in place to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
The commission highlighted ongoing efforts to improve voter participation, enhance electoral transparency, strengthen operational efficiency, and ensure strict compliance with electoral laws and guidelines.
Stakeholders at the meeting also raised concerns bordering on voter education, election security, logistics, and the need for political actors to uphold democratic principles throughout the electoral cycle. Participants stressed the importance of sustained collaboration among all stakeholders to guarantee peaceful and credible elections.
Representatives of security agencies assured the commission and other participants that adequate security arrangements were being made to protect voters, election officials, and electoral materials. They pledged to maintain law and order before, during, and after the elections to ensure a safe and secure environment across the country.
Political party representatives, on their part, called for greater transparency and fairness in the electoral process. They urged INEC to maintain neutrality and provide a level playing field for all contestants while pledging their support for efforts aimed at promoting peaceful campaigns and violence-free elections.
The electoral commission noted that the stakeholders' forum forms part of its continuous consultations with key actors in the democratic process. According to INEC, such engagements are crucial in identifying potential challenges, resolving concerns proactively, and building public trust ahead of election day.
INEC further urged eligible Nigerians to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate actively in the elections, stressing that citizen participation remains critical to strengthening democracy and promoting national development.
The commission reiterated that credible elections are fundamental to Nigeria's political stability and democratic growth, assuring stakeholders that it remains committed to conducting a process that reflects the will of the people.
