Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has highlighted the significance of utilizing the experiences gained during the 2023 elections as valuable lessons to enhance the collation and declaration of results in future elections.
Speaking at the post-election review meeting with Collation and Returning Officers held at Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja, on Friday, Yakubu stressed the need to harness these lessons for the recruitment, training, and posting of Collation and Returning Officers, as well as for logistics management during assignments.
Addressing the electoral body’s senior officials, Yakubu called for a thorough examination of past election occurrences to address the integrity of the collation and declaration process, ensuring the proper application of laws, regulations, and guidelines for result management.
Among the areas of focus during the meeting were discussions on the role of technology in result management, ensuring the security of Collation/Returning Officers and collation centers, and the conduct of party agents, election observers, and security personnel during collation.
Yakubu acknowledged the challenging circumstances under which the Collation and Returning Officers operated during the 2023 General Election, where they diligently and manually completed designated forms as required by law. He expressed appreciation for their commitment, dedication, and sacrifice in upholding democracy.
While some issues regarding result management are subject to litigations and therefore sub judice, Yakubu encouraged broad discussions and sharing of experiences to identify areas of strength and weaknesses. He emphasized the necessity of introducing necessary reforms based on the practical experiences gained in the 2023 General Election.
The Chairman assured Nigerians that the review meeting’s outcome would produce a detailed report, contributing to the ongoing efforts to enhance the electoral process and build trust in the integrity of future elections.