By-elections: INEC deploys poll materials as parties end campaigns

The Independent National Electoral Commission has completed arrangements for Saturday’s by-elections in 16 constituencies across 12 states, even as political parties and candidates intensified campaigns ahead of the close of political activities at midnight on Thursday.

The National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, said in a statement on Thursday that all logistics for the exercise had been put in place.

With less than 48 hours to the opening of polls, the Commission reiterates its appeal to all those involved in the elections—political parties and their candidates, agents, supporters, voters, observers, the media and security agencies—to adhere strictly to the provisions of the law, regulations and guidelines,” Olumekun said.

He added: “All non-sensitive materials for the election have been delivered to the states. Election technology, such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, has been configured for the election. The final consignment of sensitive materials will be delivered today as scheduled. Stakeholders are urged to avoid acts that can disrupt the process, so that the will of the people will prevail.”

According to INEC, the elections will hold in two senatorial districts in Anambra and Edo States; five federal constituencies in Edo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Ogun and Oyo States; and nine state constituencies in Adamawa, Anambra, Kaduna (2), Kano, Kogi, Niger, Taraba and Zamfara States. Court-ordered re-runs will also take place in Enugu South I State Constituency and Ghari/Tsanyawa State Constituency in Kano State.

Olumekun further announced that Continuous Voter Registration will resume soon, with online pre-registration beginning on August 18, 2025, and physical registration opening on August 25 at 811 centres nationwide.