INEC Prepared to Conduct Imo State Governorship Election in 4,720 Polling Units
Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced its readiness to oversee the upcoming governorship election in Imo State, with polling to take place in 4,720 polling units across the state. The number falls just 38 units short of the original 4,758 polling units initially designated by INEC for the election, as these areas recorded zero registered voters.
During the official voter register presentation to political parties in Owerri, the state capital, the Supervising National Electoral Commissioner in Imo State, Ken Ukeagu, disclosed that a total of 17 political parties would be fielding candidates for the election. The registered voters for the election in Imo State amount to 2,419,922, consisting of 1,199,263 males and 1,220,659 females.
INEC has successfully cleared nine out of the 13 hurdles required for the governorship elections in Imo, Kogi, and Bayelsa, all scheduled to be held concurrently. Among the milestones achieved are the publication of the official register of voters, the provision of sensitive and non-sensitive materials, the recruitment of ad-hoc staff, and advanced preparation for personnel and material movement.
To test the functionality of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the accreditation process, INEC will conduct mock accreditation exercises in nine polling units, situated across nine local government areas and registration areas in the three senatorial districts of Imo State. This simulated exercise, set to take place on Saturday, aims to ensure a smooth election process.
Mr. Ukeagu emphasized INEC’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, credible, and inclusive governorship election in Imo State. He urged political parties, candidates, and their supporters to reject violence, voter intimidation, and any form of malpractice during the electoral process.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Imo State, Professor Sylvia Agu, regarded the publication of the official voter register as a crucial step in the election procedure. She stressed the significance of stakeholders working together with cooperation and mutual respect, as this fosters a thriving democratic environment.
As the governorship election in Imo State draws near, citizens anticipate an efficient and transparent electoral process that reflects the people’s will. INEC continues to make strides in its preparations, instilling confidence in the electorate and demonstrating its dedication to upholding democratic values.
