In a recent interview with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Aminu Idris, it was revealed that the upcoming re-run polls and by-election for the State and Federal Constituencies in Kaduna State will proceed without disruption due to insecurity.
Idris stated that despite concerns about security, the commission has been collaborating with various security agencies to pinpoint potential flashpoints and ensure a peaceful electoral process.
He highlighted that security personnel, particularly the police, are well-informed about locations prone to violence and have pledged to secure these areas to enable peaceful voting, collation, and announcement of results. Additionally, Idris assured the public that security measures for these specific elections will surpass those implemented during the general elections.
Regarding logistics, non-sensitive materials have already been distributed to the seven affected local governments, while sensitive materials are scheduled to arrive at the Central Bank of Nigeria in Kaduna before being deployed for the election.
Idris emphasized that the electoral process will be transparent, with all stakeholders, including the media, being invited to witness the proceedings. He also noted that necessary arrangements have been made with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to provide approximately 3,000 vehicles for transporting materials and personnel.
The upcoming elections will involve six constituencies across seven local government areas, with a total of 1,114 polling units and approximately 639,914 registered voters who have collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). INEC has commenced the recruitment and training of about 4,000 staff, including 3,000 ad hoc staff, drawn from organizations such as the National Youth Service Corps and the Kaduna Polytechnic.
With these measures in place, INEC is confident in its logistical readiness for the elections and remains committed to ensuring a smooth and secure electoral process for the people of Kaduna State.
