The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is planning to issue a supplementary document to its 2022 Regulations and Guidelines, to clarify procedures for reviewing election results, particularly under Section 65 of the Electoral Act.
The INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu disclosed this at the second quarterly consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners in Abuja on Tuesday.
The commission is preparing for a packed electoral calendar, including five major elections within the next 13 months.
These include by-elections in 12 states on August 16, 2025; the Anambra State governorship election on November 8, 2025; Area Council elections in the FCT on February 21, 2026; the Ekiti governorship election on June 20, 2026; and the Osun governorship election on August 8, 2026.
Yakubu stressed, “As we approach the by-elections, the off-cycle governorship elections and ultimately the 2027 general election, the commission is concerned with the various interpretations given to the provision of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 on the review of election results.
“Pursuant to our powers to issue regulations, guidelines and manuals to give effect to the provisions of the Electoral Act and for its administration, the commission is working on a supplement to the Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections 2022, to provide clarity on the review of declaration and return at elections.
“As soon as the commission takes a decision, perhaps as early as this week, the supplementary Regulations and Guidelines will be uploaded to our website and other platforms for public information,” the chair noted.
The INEC chairman also called on RECs to regard their duties as ongoing responsibilities rather than activities limited to general elections.
Yakubu emphasised the need for consistent commitment at the state level, noting that the success of Nigeria’s elections depends on year-round efforts.
He reminded the RECs that responsibility for effective logistics, voter engagement, and implementation of electoral reforms lies with them.
The PUNCH