Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has issued a stern warning to electoral officers against engaging in unethical and corrupt practices during elections. He made the statement at the annual lecture of the Electoral Institute (TEI), where the theme was “Achieving Professionalism among Election Personnel through Effective Training in Preparation for Edo and Ondo off-cycle Governorship Elections”.
Yakubu, represented by the Chairman of the Board of TEI, Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, emphasized that the success of any election depends on the professionalism and competence of those responsible for conducting it. He noted that electoral personnel must be knowledgeable, skilled, and well-equipped to handle the complexities and challenges of the electoral process.
The INEC Chairman also stressed the importance of high professionalism among election personnel, citing their crucial role in upholding the integrity of democratic processes. He pointed out that the manner in which electoral officers discharge their duties has a direct impact on voter confidence and participation.
To ensure credibility and trustworthiness in elections, Yakubu urged that the professional development of election personnel be prioritized. He emphasized that all election officials should be punctual, courteous, polite, and helpful at all times, treating voters with respect and dignity. Any officer found engaging in unethical or corrupt practices will face severe punishment under the law.
The INEC Chairman underscored the need for election officials to be guided by a high sense of integrity, impartiality, transparency, professionalism, gender and disability sensitivity, and consideration for vulnerable groups such as elderly people, expectant mothers, nursing mothers, and persons with disabilities.
Yakubu’s warning comes ahead of upcoming off-cycle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states, where INEC is keen to ensure a smooth and credible process. The Commission has already taken measures to strengthen its preparedness for the elections, including training electoral officials on effective conduct and management of polling units.
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