By Joy Odor
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has taken a significant step towards enhancing transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s electoral process by introducing new Supplementary Regulations and Guidelines for reviewing questionable election results.
The move which was disclosed at INEC’s weekly meeting on Thursday, July 3 in Abuja by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mr. Sam Olumekun aimed to clarify the process under Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022, which empowers INEC to review election results in cases of fraud or procedural errors.
The INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu initiated the review within two days of announcing a result based on a report from a Resident Electoral Commissioner, National Commissioner, or qualified official.
According to him, INEC will convene an emergency session to consider the report’s merit, and if necessary, form an Election Review Committee (ERC) within 24 hours.
He noted that the ERC, consisting of five National Commissioners, will review the case within four days and submit a report within six days of the original declaration.
Olumekun also informed that the Elections under review will be publicly tagged “Under Review,” preventing INEC from taking further action or issuing final certificates.
These new regulations will significantly impact the upcoming elections, including:-
– *By-elections in 12 states*: Scheduled for August 16, 2025
– *Anambra Governorship Election*: Set for November 8, 2025
– *FCT Area Council Elections*: Planned for February 21, 2026
– *Ekiti Governorship Election*: Scheduled for June 20, 2026
– *Osun Governorship Election*: Set for August 8, 2026
*Registration of New Political Parties:*
“INEC has received 122 applications from political associations seeking registration, with 12 new applications submitted between June 23 and July 2.
“The Commission urges applicants to maintain consistency in their leadership and contact information to avoid delays in processing.
