Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has expressed concern about the recent series of court judgments and security challenges in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo states, stating that they pose a threat to the preparation for the November 11 polls.

Yakubu conveyed that recent court decisions regarding the nomination, substitution, or disqualification of candidates have significantly impacted the commission's readiness. He highlighted the additional expenses incurred due to the reprinting of sensitive materials after court orders were issued.

During the quarterly meeting with political parties at the commission's headquarters in Abuja, Yakubu also voiced apprehension about the escalating violence involving parties and candidates in the three states. He emphasized that free and fair elections can only take place in an atmosphere of peace.

With a little over two weeks remaining until the election, Yakubu mentioned that INEC is in the final stages of preparation. He noted that conducting three off-cycle governorship elections simultaneously across different geopolitical zones is a unique challenge for the commission.

Yakubu explained, “The reprinting of the materials in compliance with court orders within a short period of time is not only expensive but the management of the process very challenging. Although the commission has already published the final list of candidates for the three states, four recent court orders have compelled us to review the list."

“These changes have been reflected in the updated list of parties and candidates on our website. However, this decision is without prejudice to any pending appeal by the affected candidates or their political parties."

“As electioneering campaigns continue to intensify, the commission reiterates its concern about the spate of violence in the three states involving parties and candidates. I wish to remind you as party leaders that free and fair elections are only possible in an atmosphere of peace."

“This is made possible by the coincidence of the end of tenure of the current holders of the offices which fall within the constitutional timeframe of not earlier than 150 days or later than 30 days before the expiration of their terms of office as enshrined in Section 178(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended),” the INEC boss submitted.