Registered voters across 13 Nigerian states are heading to the polls today to fill vacant seats in the Senate, House of Representatives, and state assemblies. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed that elections are taking place in 16 constituencies, following resignations, deaths, or court-ordered reruns.
The affected states include Jigawa, Edo, Ogun, Oyo, Adamawa, Anambra, Kaduna, Kano, Taraba, Kogi, Niger, Enugu, and Zamfara. According to INEC, two senatorial districts, five federal constituencies, and nine state assembly seats are up for grabs.
Vacancies arose from various circumstances. In Anambra Central, the Senate seat became vacant after the death of Senator Ifeanyi Uba of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) last year. Edo Central’s Senate seat opened when Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was elected governor. Meanwhile, court-ordered rerun elections are being held in Enugu South 1 State Constituency and Ghari/Tsanyawa State Constituency of Kano.
INEC stated that all non-sensitive election materials have been delivered to the states, while sensitive items were dispatched on Thursday. The commission has completed the configuration of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and trained ad hoc staff to ensure smooth voting. Campaigning officially ended at midnight on Thursday, August 14.
Police Enforce Movement Restrictions
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has imposed a restriction on vehicular and waterway movement in affected areas from 12 a.m. to 6 p.m. today, except for essential personnel such as INEC officials, accredited media, electoral observers, and emergency services. VIP security escorts and private security outfits are barred from election duties.
Senior police officers, including Assistant Inspectors-General and state Commissioners of Police, have been deployed to supervise the polls, supported by specialized units such as the Police Mobile Force and Special Intervention Squad. Citizens are urged to remain law-abiding, with assurances that adequate security arrangements are in place to protect voters’ rights.
Political Parties and Ballot Updates
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) will participate in the by-elections across 12 states, following a Federal High Court ruling. The Labour Party’s participation remains uncertain as the matter is still sub judice.
INEC confirmed that results will be uploaded to its Result Viewing Portal (IReV) after counting at each polling unit. Voters can track results in real-time as data is submitted.
