Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Mahmood Yakubu, has provided reassurance that concerns raised by Nigerians regarding result management during the 2023 general elections will be addressed. Although some of these concerns are currently before the courts and considered sub judice, the commission intends to have in-house discussions and share experiences to chart a path forward.
Yakubu made these statements during the commission’s post-election review meeting with Collation and returning officers who were involved in the 2023 general election. This meeting marks the fourth in a series of review meetings aimed at assessing the conduct of the 2023 general elections and finding solutions for the future.
He said: “The Commission is aware that as collation and returning officers, you worked under extremely challenging circumstances by tediously and manually completing designated forms as provided by law and either moved them to the next level of collation or concluded the processes as Returning Officers.
“Many of you also have the cognate experience of result management, having served in similar capacities in at least three electoral cycles. The Commission appreciates your commitment, dedication to duty, and sacrifice to the cause of our democracy.
“More specifically, and from your practical experience in the 2023 General Election, we would like to hear your perspectives on the processes and procedures for recruitment, training, and posting of Collation and Returning Officers; logistics for movement to and from your places of assignment; the role of technology in result management among others.”
Once all the review engagements are completed, a comprehensive report will be prepared to address the issues and provide a way forward.