The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has informed civil society organisations (CSOs) that their involvement in future elections hinges on the submission of reports on past electoral monitoring activities. INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu emphasized this during a meeting in Abuja with CSOs engaged in election monitoring.
Yakubu emphasized the need for CSOs to submit their applications for accreditation as election observers for the upcoming September 21 governorship elections in Edo State. He highlighted that failing to meet the submission deadlines or criteria could result in non-accreditation for future polls.
He stated, “The submission of reports from previous accreditation in the manner required by the commission is mandatory for continuous participation in election observation.” Yakubu also announced upcoming by-elections in various constituencies due to vacancies in the National and State Assemblies.
Additionally, Yakubu informed the CSOs about the resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Edo and Ondo states. He urged them to assist in mobilizing prospective registrants, emphasizing the importance of early registration to avoid last-minute rushes.
