As preparations ramp up for the Munya State Constituency bye-election in Niger State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has held a crucial stakeholders’ meeting to outline its roadmap and expectations ahead of the August 16, 2025 poll.
Speaking at the event, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Niger State, Ahmed Garki, emphasized the Commission’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity in the electoral process. He noted that the bye-election became necessary following the death of the lawmaker representing the constituency.
> “This meeting is to brief political parties, security agencies, and community stakeholders early enough. We will work closely with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and credible election,” Garki stated.
Garki revealed that INEC will deploy 558 personnel for the bye-election, supported by 163 Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices, including backups. The devices are currently undergoing configuration to ensure seamless voter authentication.
He urged all political parties to comply strictly with the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines, emphasizing that the Commission will maintain neutrality and transparency throughout the process.
In line with preparations, INEC has resumed Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in the constituency. The REC appealed to stakeholders to mobilize eligible voters to participate actively in the registration exercise.
Also speaking, Jacob Ajuh, Head of Election and Party Monitoring (EPM) and Acting Administrative Secretary, reminded political parties to submit key documents before conducting primaries. These include delegate lists, electoral committee lists signed by party national leaders, party guidelines, and result sheets—all in triplicate.
> “Failure to submit a result sheet on the day of the primary invalidates the exercise. Monitors will collect one copy on-site,” Ajuh warned.
On behalf of the political parties, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Niger State, Bello Maikujeri, commended INEC’s proactive steps and pledged political parties’ readiness to comply with the rules.
> “We are familiar with the electoral process. We’ll play by the rules and expect a level playing field for all,” he said.
Assuring residents of a secure electoral environment, the Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command, CP Adamu Elleman, represented by DCP Aminu Garba, said the police have activated a comprehensive election security plan.
> “Our operation order covers deployment strategy, material security, movement control, and safety of voters and electoral staff,” he stated.
The Munya State Constituency bye-election is officially scheduled for August 16, 2025
