By Nkechi Eze
As part of efforts to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and ensure the smooth conduct of electoral activities in Gombe State, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris, has commenced a series of courtesy visits to key stakeholders in the state. The engagement began with visits to members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), underscoring the Commission’s emphasis on election security in the buildup to the 2027 General Elections.
During his visit to the Gombe State Police Command, where he was received by the Commissioner of Police and Co-Chair of ICCES, CP Bello Yahaya, Dr. Idris reiterated the strategic importance of security agencies in the delivery of credible and peaceful elections. He emphasized that INEC would continue to rely on the unwavering support and cooperation of the Nigeria Police and other security outfits, particularly as the electoral calendar progresses.
“As the 2027 General Elections approach, we will rely on your support and cooperation to deliver on our mandate,” the REC stated. He added that his decision to begin his familiarization tour with security agencies was deliberate, given their critical role in safeguarding the electoral process. Dr. Idris further pledged to support the training of security personnel ahead of election duties, declaring, “I myself will lead the training if need be.”
He also used the opportunity to brief the Police Commissioner on the forthcoming Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, which is scheduled to commence on August 18, 2025 for online pre-registration, while in-person registration will begin on August 25, 2025. The exercise will take place at the INEC State Office and across the 11 Local Government Area offices in Gombe State.
The REC urged the Police and other security agencies to provide the necessary support to ensure a smooth and secure CVR process. He also encouraged officers and men of the Force to participate actively in the exercise, whether by transferring their registration, correcting biodata errors, or replacing lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). “This is important because if the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and amendments to the Electoral Act 2022 are successful, all those involved in election duties may have the opportunity to vote,” he noted.
In his response, CP Bello Yahaya commended the REC for the timely visit and assured him of the Gombe State Police Command’s full support for all INEC activities. He also welcomed the REC’s offer to lead capacity-building sessions, describing it as a valuable contribution to election security management.
Dr. Idris also paid a courtesy call on the Commander of the 301 Artillery Regiment (General Support) of the Nigerian Army, Col. Abubakar Mohammed, at his office along Yola Road. The day’s engagements concluded at the Gombe State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), where he was warmly received by the State Commandant, Jibrin Idris. Both military and paramilitary agencies reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Commission’s preparations and execution of electoral activities in the state.
