The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Jigawa State has assured that all arrangements are in place for a smooth conduct of Saturday’s by-election in the Babura/Garki Federal Constituency.
Speaking with Voice of Nigeria Correspondent Salihu Ali in Dutse, INEC’s Public Enlightenment Officer, Kamal Hassan, said both sensitive and non-sensitive materials had been delivered to the appropriate locations.
According to him, non-sensitive materials are already at the local government offices in Babura and Garki, while sensitive items were received on August 14 by the National Commissioner, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, and other senior officials before being distributed to Electoral Officers in the company of security agencies.
Hassan added that the Commission has engaged extensively with stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, hitch-free poll.
“We have held several meetings with political parties, security agencies, and community leaders. The electorate has been sensitised, and from INEC’s side, we are fully prepared,” he said.
The by-election follows the death of the former representative, Hon. Isa Yaro, who passed away on May 10, 2024, at the age of 46. INEC scheduled the poll for August 16, 2025, to fill the vacant seat.
The contest has attracted strong interest, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) fielding Rabi’u Mukhtar, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has nominated Rabiu Auwalu Manzo as its candidate.