Ahead of Saturday’s elections in the Federal Capital Territory and the states of Kano and Rivers, President Bola Tinubu has challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to use the weekend elections to inspire confidence in the electorate regarding the electoral process.
Tinubu gave the charge to the Commission in a statement issued to newsmen on Friday and signed by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information & Strategy.
INEC has scheduled elections in the six area councils of the FCT, as well as bye-elections in the Ahoada East II and Khana II State constituencies of Rivers State, and in the Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano State.
Tinubu specifically admonished INEC “to take all necessary measures to bolster voters’ confidence by ensuring timely accreditation, smooth voting processes, accurate collation, and prompt transmission of results, in line with the 2026 Electoral Act.”
He appealed to political parties, candidates, and their supporters to shun violence, inflammatory statements, and actions that could undermine the credibility of the process.
Tinubu further urged all eligible voters to come out and vote without fear.
He cautioned against any form of high-handedness, intimidation, or actions that could disenfranchise voters or erode public trust, stressing that security personnel are present to protect lives, property, and the sanctity of the ballot.
His statement read: “Fellow Nigerians, I assure you that the Federal Government under my administration will continue to support institutions responsible for delivering free, fair, and credible elections.
“To all residents of the FCT, Kano and Rivers, I commend your civic consciousness. I am confident that these elections will reflect the will of the people and further strengthen our democratic journey as a nation.”
