Abuja, July 1, 2025 — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is preparing to issue supplementary regulations to its 2022 election guidelines aimed at resolving ambiguity over the review process for declared results, particularly those returned under pressure or duress.
At a consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners on Tuesday, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu highlighted growing confusion arising from Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022. The section empowers INEC to revisit a returning officer’s declaration within seven days if the results were aired under coercion or contrary to legal procedures. However, inconsistent interpretations have emerged across states, prompting the need for clarifying amendments .
Prof. Yakubu explained that as Nigeria gears up for multiple polls—including by-elections in 12 states in August, the Anambra governorship in November, and the Ekiti and Osun elections in 2026—ensuring clarity around Section 65 becomes critical to safeguarding electoral integrity . He revealed that the supplementary guidelines would be finalised “perhaps as early as this week” and made publicly accessible via INEC’s website and other platforms .
The move is also tied to efforts to improve polling unit logistics. Prof. Yakubu urged REC’s to submit plans for decongesting crowded polling areas to improve voter access and contribute to smoother electoral processes .
By refining its regulatory framework, INEC hopes to eliminate legal uncertainties, reduce disputes over result declarations, and enhance confidence in upcoming elections by clarifying how and when results can be rightfully reviewed.
