The Independent National Electoral Commission in Jigawa State has called on political parties to sensitise their supporters to ensure the peaceful conduct of the upcoming by-elections in the state.
This call was made by the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Professor Mahammad Lawan, on Wednesday, during a meeting with stakeholders at the Commission’s conference hall in Dutse, the state capital.
Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission scheduled August 16, 2025, for the by-election for the Garki/Babura federal constituency following the death of their member in the House of Representatives, Hon. Isa Dogon Yaro, on May 9, 2024.
Lawan disclosed, “The by-election for Babura and Garki Federal Constituencies is scheduled for August 16, this year and noted that the commission is making necessary preparations for the successful conduct of the by-elections.”
On the level of preparation so far, the Resident Electoral Commissioner said that “Out of the 100 per cent preparations for the election, more than 30 per cent of the work has been completed.”
He added that the “Upgrading of the Vivas voting machine has been completed, which is a significant milestone in the preparations.”
Lawan, however, noted that “Some work still needs to be done, particularly on voter education and sensitisation, which is a key element in achieving the successful conduct of the by-elections.
He assured that all necessary, sensitive, and non-sensitive materials for the election would be 100 per cent provided in complete form before the by-election day.
However, the INEC boss in Jigawa state sought the cooperation of security agencies and other relevant stakeholders in responding to the invitation extended to the Commission. This, he said, “Would ensure the success of the by-election.”
Lawan therefore stated further that “The success of the by-election will depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders, including INEC, security agencies, political parties and prospective voters in order to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free election.”
During the meeting, which lasted for hours, stakeholders expressed their views and offered suggestions on how to conduct the elections in a peaceful and orderly manner.
The stakeholders also commended INEC for the progress made so far in the preparations for the by-election, pledging their support and cooperation to ensure the success of the Garki/Babura federal constituency by-elections.
PUNCH Online reports that one of the key issues discussed during the meeting was the need for peaceful conduct of the election, as stakeholders in attendance emphasised the importance of avoiding violence and ensuring that the election is conducted in a free and fair manner.
