Further to preparations towards a successful conduct of forthcoming off-cycle electuons nationwide, the Chairman of Independent National Elec5oral Commission, Prof Mahmoud Yakubu has solicited support of the Nigeria Airforce.
The INEC Chairman disclosed that the Commission is set to conduct bye-elections and re-run elections in 26 states, covering various levels of representation.
Speaking during a visit to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal H.B. Abubakar, Prof. Yakubu expressed gratitude for the warm reception and congratulated the Air Chief on his appointment. He also commended the Air Force for cooperating with election management body regarding election security and logistics, highlighting their professionalism and neutrality.
With elections scheduled in nine states to fill vacancies in the national and state assemblies, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu emphasized the need for collaboration with national assets, including the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
Addressing the upcoming electoral tasks, the Chairman outlined the extensive scale of the elections, involving 80 local government areas, 575 registration areas/wards, and 8,934 polling units. A total of 4,904,627 registered voters are expected to participate, with 4,613,291 Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) already collected.
Recognizing the enormity of the assignment, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu stressed that the Commission cannot accomplish it alone. Referring to Section 27(3) of the Electoral Act 2022, he highlighted the legal provision empowering the Commission to seek support from security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies for the efficient delivery of materials and protection of election officials.
In preparation for the elections, the Chairman sought the support of the NAF in expeditiously delivering materials to specific locations in the North East, South East, and South West geopolitical zones. The Commission, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria, is handling the evacuation of materials from focal airports to states where elections will occur.
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu assured transparency in the inspection and movement of materials, involving all stakeholders, including political parties’ agents, observers, and the media.
In conclusion, the Chairman expressed gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff for the audience and support, anticipating yet another seamless collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force.
In his remarks, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal H.B. Abubakar expressed gratitude to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, for fostering democracy and strengthening collaboration between the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and INEC, emphasizing their shared commitment to good governance, stability, and the rule of law across Nigeria.
He noted that there is an alternative aircraft for transporting sensitive materials, urging timely planning due to capacity limitations. Additionally, he reminded Prof. Yakubu of outstanding bills, emphasizing their settlement for enhanced service delivery.
In closing, the CAS expressed gratitude for the visit, foreseeing increased cooperation and synergy between NAF and INEC as he anticipated positive impacts on Nigeria’s democratic processes, affirming their collective commitment to maintaining the country’s status as the giant of Africa.
