INEC Chairman proposes reforms for future collation election results

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, convened a crucial post-election review meeting with Collation and Returning Officers to evaluate the 2023 General Election and discuss potential reforms for future elections.

Addressing the attendees at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu welcomed the participants, which included National Commissioners, Collation and Returning Officers for the 2023 General Election, other senior officials of INEC, and members of the INEC Press Corps.

The meeting marked the fourth in a series of engagements with key stakeholders involved in the administration of the 2023 General Election.

Prior to this gathering, the Commission met with the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), Electoral Officers (EOs), and the leadership of Land and Maritime Workers’ Unions who provided logistic support for personnel and materials movement.

During the meeting, the focus was on Collation Officers, including the 37 State Collation Officers for the Presidential Election (SCOPEs), many of whom also served as Returning Officers for the 28 Governorship elections. Additionally, Collation Officers who acted as Returning Officers for senatorial elections across the six geo-political zones were also invited to share their experiences.

Prof. Yakubu acknowledged the challenges faced by Collation and Returning Officers during the electoral process. He praised their commitment, dedication, and sacrifice to uphold the integrity of the elections despite the difficulties encountered.

He stated, “The Commission appreciates your commitment, dedication to duty, and sacrifice to the cause of our democracy.”

• INEC Reviews 2023 General Election, Seeks Input on Improving Future Elections
• Kano State Government Revokes Private School Licenses, Initiates Reforms
• 2023 WASSCE Results Released: A Milestone for Nigerian School Candidates
• INEC Announces Electronic Result Transmission for Kogi State Governorship Election
• ENUGU: INEC fails to produce witnesses in governorship Election Petition Tribunal
• Upcoming Election: INEC Announces Mock Accreditation of Voters in Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi

The Chairman also emphasized the significance of the meeting in addressing issues raised by Nigerians regarding result management at various levels. He expressed the Commission’s willingness to discuss and share experiences, identifying areas of strength, weaknesses, and proposed reforms for future elections.

The participants were encouraged to share their practical experiences during the 2023 General Election, including perspectives on recruitment, training, and posting of Collation and Returning Officers, logistics for movement, integrity of collation and declaration procedures, the role of technology in result management, security of Collation/Returning Officers and centers, conduct of party agents, election observers, and security personnel.

At the conclusion of the review engagements, INEC pledged to prepare a comprehensive report, incorporating the insights shared during the meetings. The goal is to continuously improve and enhance the electoral process in Nigeria, ensuring transparency, credibility, and fairness in all future elections.

In closing, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu expressed gratitude to the participants and invoked blessings for the successful outcome of the review meeting.

Note: The remarks were sourced from the Verified Tweeter handle of INEC Nigeria (@inecnigeria).