The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies have expressed their readiness for the governorship elections in Kogi and Bayelsa States. At a Dialogue session with the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) of Kogi and Bayelsa States, organised by the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room in Abuja on Thursday, 31st October 2019. Representatives from INEC, the Nigeria Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) made presentations on their levels of preparedness for the elections. Speaking at the meeting, the INEC Chairman represented by National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye stated that the Commission offices in Kogi and Bayelsa States have received the full complement of non-sensitive materials for the elections. He also stated that the Commission has banned some ad-hoc staff for electoral malpractices following the 2019 general elections and is currently prosecuting the suspects. Okoye also stated that the Commission is partnering with the military to provide protection for election staff and materials. He emphasized that the mode of transmission of results for the November 16 elections will be manual.
INEC REC in Kogi State, Prof. James Apam stated that the Commission in Kogi State had carried out voter education programmes on free and fair elections, as well as interacted with stakeholder groups. He further stated that braille guides and other assistive materials have been provided for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). INEC REC in Bayelsa State, Monday Tom noted that the Kogi and Bayelsa governorship elections will set the tone for the 2023 general elections, being the first major off-cycle election following the 2019 general elections. Speaking on training of ad-hoc staff for the elections, he stated that there was particular focus with regard to training staff adequately on the use of the Smart Card Readers. He enjoined Civil Society to engage politicians on the need to abide by the rules of elections. He also called on the electorate to desist from vote buying, explaining that engaging in the act would translate to giving up their right to hold the government accountable after elections. The RECs assured stakeholders of INEC’s commitment to remain neutral and ensure that the people of Kogi and Bayelsa States vote the candidates of their choice on November 16 and that their votes count.
Deputy Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, DCP Kabir Gwarzo stated that election staff and materials will be escorted and secured by security agents, with four security personnel stationed at each polling unit.