INEC pledges continuous collaborations with UNILORIN
By Muizdeen Adewole
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has pledged its continuous collaborations with the University of Ilorin.
This reassurance was made by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of INEC in Kwara State, Dr Hale Gabriel Longpet, while featuring on UNILORIN FM’s “Table Talk” anchored by the Station Manager, Mr Idris Alooma, last Thursday, (January 22, 2026).
Dr Longpet emphasised the strong and enduring relationship between INEC and Nigerian universities, noting that the Commission has traditionally relied on universities as a key source of adhoc staff and returning officers.
He recalled his encounter with the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, during the 2023 general elections in Kogi State, where he served as the Resident Electoral Commissioner before his transfer to Kwara State. “The current Vice Chancellor was the INEC Returning Officer for Kogi State during that election,” he said, highlighting the long-standing partnership between INEC and Nigerian universities.
Dr Longpet noted that the Commission has launched the second phase of its continuous voter registration exercise, aiming to update the voter register to ensure that eligible citizens can participate in future elections. He further mentioned that the exercise allows new voters to register, while also enabling existing voters to update their information, transfer voting locations, or correct errors on their registration cards.
According to the REC, the exercise is crucial in addressing issues with the current register, including inaccurate information and missing names. “Many people have given different reasons for not participating in previous elections,” he said.
He reiterated INEC’s commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria, noting that the Commission’s mandates go beyond conducting elections, saying that it encompasses critical tasks such as registering political parties and monitoring their activities, deliminating constituencies and polling units, and educating voters on the electoral process.
He noted that INEC is also responsible for registering voters, maintaining the voters’ register, and ensuring compliance with electoral laws by all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, and voters.
“As Nigeria gears up for the next round of elections, INEC is leaving no stone unturned in its preparations to guarantee a credible and transparent electoral process,” he stated.
