The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to its staff and ad hoc personnel against engaging in bribery and extortion during the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise. The warning was delivered by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Kogi State, Dr. Shehu Wahab, during a press briefing in Lokoja on Monday.
Warning Against Corruption
Dr. Wahab, who used the occasion to announce the commencement of the third phase of the CVR, emphasized that the registration process is free and intended for all eligible citizens. He cautioned INEC officials not to view the exercise as an opportunity to make money. “This CVR exercise is free; it is an opportunity to register all eligible citizens of the country,” he said. “I am using this opportunity to warn INEC staff to avoid taking bribes or asking for gratification to register candidates. INEC officials should not see the opportunity as a money-making venture, even if the registrants give you money, don’t take it. There will be serious disciplinary action against any staff caught taking money or discovered to have taken money.”
Provisions for All Nigerians
Dr. Wahab also highlighted that INEC has made necessary provisions to register all categories of Nigerians, including those with disabilities and persons with albinism. “We have provisions to capture people living with disabilities or those living with albinism. All you need to do is click the PWD button, and the site will open to enter your particulars and register,” he explained.
Challenges in Kebbi State
In a related development, INEC has expressed concern over insecurity and poor network connectivity, which may pose major challenges to the smooth conduct of the ongoing CVR exercise in Kebbi State. The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Kebbi State, Abubakar Sarkin-Fawa, made this known during a meeting with journalists and stakeholders in election management held in Birnin Kebbi.
Mr. Sarkin-Fawa announced that the third phase of the CVR exercise commenced on May 11 and will run until June 3 on a rotational basis across the state. He added that the exercise would also be held from July 6 to 10 at all 21 INEC local council area offices in the state. The REC urged stakeholders to assist in sensitizing the public and addressing the challenges to ensure a successful registration process.
