By Joy Odor
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has intensified its engagement with security agencies to ensure a safe and conducive environment for the democratic process.
This renewed call for strategic coordination comes amid mounting concerns over emerging security threats, particularly from regions where non-state actors and political violence have disrupted past elections.
The INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu in his address at the Second Regular Consultative Meeting with Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) on Thursday in Abuja outlined the Commission’s electoral calendar for the second half of the year, which includes:
– Bye-elections scheduled for August 16, 2025, to fill vacant positions in 16 constituencies across 12 states
– Anambra State Governorship election on November 8, 2025
– Nationwide resumption of Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) starting August 18, 2025
Professor Yakubu emphasized the need for proactive and intelligence-led planning to ensure the safety of electoral personnel, materials, and voters.
He urged security agencies to intensify their surveillance and intelligence-gathering mechanisms to neutralize threats before they escalate.
INEC therefore reaffirmed its dedication to free, fair, peaceful, and credible elections.
Professor Yakubu informed that the Commission will continue to work in close partnership with all security agencies and stakeholders to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.
Meanwhile, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu in his speech declared zero tolerance for electoral violence ahead of the August bye-elections and the November governorship election in Anambra State.
Represented by the Director of Internal Security at the Office of the NSA, Hassan Abdullahi, Ribadu warned politicians and their supporters to conduct themselves responsibly or face severe consequences.
The NSA emphasized that the government will not hesitate to act decisively against any individual or group attempting to undermine the electoral process.
According to him, Security agencies have been directed to:
– Intensify surveillance
– Boost intelligence gathering and
– Implement proactive measures to neutralize potential threats
The NSA’s directive aimed to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process, particularly in areas vulnerable to subversive activities and political interference.
Politicians and their supporters are expected to conduct themselves responsibly, and any form of electoral violence or malpractice will be met with the full weight of the law.
