INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has announced that the commission is preparing supplementary regulations and guidelines to clarify procedures regarding the review of election declarations and returns ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Yakubu made the disclosure on Tuesday during a consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) held at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

He explained that the development was part of INEC’s efforts to provide clear direction on the implementation of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022, which allows for the review of election results under certain conditions.

“As we approach the bye-elections, the off-cycle governorship elections, and ultimately the 2027 general election, the commission is concerned with the various interpretations given to the provision of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022,” Yakubu said.

He noted that the commission, under its statutory powers, was working on a supplement to the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections to ensure consistency and transparency in the electoral process.

“As soon as the commission takes a decision, perhaps as early as this week, the supplementary regulations and guidelines will be uploaded to our website and other platforms for public information,” he added.

Yakubu further directed the RECs to begin preparations ahead of the elections by implementing already-established policies at the state and local government levels without waiting for directives from the headquarters.

He urged the RECs to provide comprehensive reports on plans to improve voter access to polling units, clean up the voter register, and strengthen engagement with stakeholders to enhance election logistics and security.

“I wish to remind you that your work does not begin as the general election approaches. You are full-time commissioners,” Yakubu emphasised.
“You do not need an elaborate conference or workshop to build the capacity of your staff. Some of you are already doing so, but you need to intensify your efforts.”

The commission said the forthcoming regulations would serve as a critical step toward increasing trust in electoral processes and ensuring electoral integrity ahead of 2027.