The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and credible conduct of the upcoming Rivers State House of Assembly by-elections scheduled for February 21.
The call was made by the Rivers Resident Electoral Commissioner, Professor Gabriel Yomere, during a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
He emphasised that the by-elections are crucial for voters in Ahoada-East II and Khana II constituencies, who have been without representation at the state legislature.
Yomere confirmed that INEC has already begun preparations, including training personnel and organizing the distribution of sensitive and non-sensitive election materials.
“The by-election will cover 112,950 registered voters across 14 registration areas and 242 polling units in the two local government areas,” he stated.
He also urged political parties and candidates to conduct primaries responsibly, stressing that elections should be contests of ideas rather than platforms for intimidation, destruction, or violence.
Yomere commended security agencies for their professionalism and assured their continued collaboration to maintain a secure voting environment.
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olugbenga Adepoju, represented by CSP James Njoku, reinforced the message, stressing that security during elections is a shared responsibility.
He warned against acts of electoral violence and urged youth, community, religious, and political leaders to promote peace and educate their followers about the consequences of unrest.
Dr. Nnanna Onyekere, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, lauded INEC’s proactive measures, particularly moving voter registration to the ward level, which he said would improve accessibility for prospective voters.
He expressed confidence that the by-elections would be conducted peacefully and successfully.
