By Joy Odor
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared its readiness to conduct outstanding bye-elections and resume the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise nationwide.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made the announcement during a Quarterly Consultative Meeting with Media Executives in Abuja on Wednesday.
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu informed that INEC will release full details of the scheduled bye-elections and CVR resumption plan within 24 hours.
He said the CVR exercise will enable new eligible voters to register, update personal details, and request replacements for lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
According to him, the resumption of CVR is expected to boost electoral participation, especially among young Nigerians.
The INEC National Chairman affirmed that INEC also provided updates on the Anambra State Governorship Election and FCT Area Council elections, encouraging media organisations to apply for accreditation.
Prof Yakubu opined that the Commission has released the names and details of 110 political associations seeking registration as political parties.
He reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to treating all applications fairly, regardless of the status or prominence of the promoters.
In his response, the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahaya commended INEC for its proactive engagement with media professionals.
The NUJ President reiterated the media’s role in promoting electoral integrity and democracy, saying the development marks a critical step in the electoral calendar, offering millions an opportunity to engage in the democratic process and strengthening the legitimacy of future polls.
In his contribution, the Executive Director, International Press Center Lagos Nigeria, Comrade . Lanre Arogundade commended the INEC Chairman for effectiveness support for Media covering the election, saying there is improvement in the accreditation and called for sustainable.
He challenged journalists as a matter of importance to recognize their responsibilities in holding politicians accountable who violate electroal processes when covering elections.
