The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed plans to deploy 46,084 regular and ad-hoc staff for the upcoming November 11 governorship elections in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo states.
This information was disclosed by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, during a meeting with the Resident Electoral Commissioners in Abuja on Friday.
Prof. Yakubu also highlighted that 11,000 observers from both national and international organizations will be accredited to monitor the off-cycle election.
Additionally, 18 political parties participating in the election are expected to deploy a total of 137,934 agents, consisting of 130,093 polling agents and 7,841 collation agents.
“While we are leaving no stone unturned in other areas of preparations for the Governorship elections, the Commission plans to deploy a total of 46,084 regular and ad hoc staff for the election,” the INEC Chairman said.
“We have so far accredited 126 national and international organisations collectively deploying 11,000 observers for the election.
“Although the portal for media accreditation closes on Tuesday 24th October 2023, we have received applications from 80 media organisations seeking to deploy 1,203 personnel made up of journalists and technical/support staff to report on the elections.
“The 18 political parties participating in the elections are deploying 137,934 agents made up of 130,093 polling and 7,841 collation agents. We are also finalizing arrangements for vehicles and boats for land and maritime movement of personnel and materials.”
INEC again expressed deep concern over the rising state of insecurity and election-related violence across the three states.
Prof. Yakubu stated, “Such massive deployment requires a secure environment which is beyond our immediate responsibilities.
“As we said repeatedly, we are concerned about the prevailing insecurity and election-related violence in the three States. We have been reassured of adequate deployment by the security agencies.
“On our part, we will continue to deepen our engagement with the security agencies and more meetings are planned in the next few days.”
“So far, all non-sensitive materials for the election have been delivered to the three States. Other preparatory activities, including training, are on course.
“Valuable lessons have been learnt from the 2023 general election for improved performance in the forthcoming elections.”
