Tinubu Urges INEC to Ensure Prompt Results Transmission in FCT, Kano and Rivers Polls

President Bola Tinubu has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to guarantee the timely transmission of election results in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kano and Rivers states, as residents prepare to head to the polls.

The president also appealed to security agencies and electoral officials to conduct themselves professionally, stressing that public confidence in the democratic process depends heavily on transparency and orderliness.

INEC is set to conduct area council elections in the Federal Capital Territory, alongside bye-elections in parts of Rivers State and Kano State.

In Rivers, the polls will take place in Ahoada East II and Khana II state constituencies. Meanwhile, voters in Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies will elect new representatives.

These elections are seen as politically significant, particularly as they test electoral reforms introduced under the Electoral Act 2026.

Call for a peaceful and credible process

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on media and strategy, Tinubu urged eligible voters to participate without fear or intimidation.

He emphasised that democracy flourishes in an environment of calm, tolerance and mutual respect. The president warned political parties, candidates and supporters against violence or inflammatory rhetoric that could undermine the credibility of the process.

Tinubu also cautioned security personnel against high-handedness, reminding them that their primary responsibility is to safeguard lives, property and the integrity of the ballot, not to intimidate voters.

A key part of the president’s message centred on the prompt and accurate transmission of results. He encouraged INEC to strengthen voter confidence by ensuring seamless accreditation, orderly voting procedures and transparent collation of results.

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Timely electronic transmission of results has become a major benchmark for assessing the credibility of elections in Nigeria. Delays or inconsistencies in past elections have often triggered disputes and public distrust.

Tinubu said adherence to the Electoral Act 2026 is critical in reinforcing trust and demonstrating institutional independence.

Federal government pledges support

The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting institutions responsible for delivering free and fair elections. He expressed confidence that the polls in the FCT, Kano and Rivers would reflect the will of the people.

Observers say the elections will serve as an important indicator of Nigeria’s democratic progress and the effectiveness of recent electoral reforms.

As voters prepare to cast their ballots, attention now turns to INEC and security agencies to ensure the process meets public expectations for transparency, fairness and credibility.