Tinubu Lauds INEC, Calls For ‘Free And Fair Elections’ In FCT, Kano, Rivers States
Tinubu Lauds INEC, Calls For ‘Free And Fair Elections’ In FCT, Kano, Rivers States
Tinubu said this in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), on Friday.
President Bola Tinubu has called for orderliness and restraint by security agencies ahead of Saturday’s elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kano and Rivers states, while urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to strengthen voters’ confidence in the electoral process.
Tinubu said this in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), on Friday.
The President made the call as INEC prepares to conduct elections in the six area councils of the FCT, alongside bye-elections in Ahoada East II and Khana II State constituencies of Rivers State, and in the Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano State.
President Tinubu appealed to voters, security agencies and electoral officials to conduct themselves responsibly during the polls.
He urged all eligible voters to come out and participate without fear, stressing that democracy flourishes in a peaceful environment.
According to him, the democratic process “thrives best in an atmosphere of calm, tolerance, and mutual respect.”
The president also cautioned political actors against actions that could undermine the credibility of the elections.
He appealed to political parties, candidates and their supporters to avoid violence and inflammatory rhetoric capable of disrupting the process
He further warned security agencies against misconduct, emphasising the need for professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
President Tinubu “cautioned against any form of high-handedness, intimidation, or actions that could disenfranchise voters or erode public trust,” stressing that security personnel are deployed to safeguard lives and property, as well as protect the integrity of the ballot.
The President equally charged INEC to take proactive steps to enhance public trust in the elections.
He urged the Commission to ensure seamless accreditation of voters, smooth voting procedures, transparent collation and timely transmission of results in accordance with the provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act.
He said the Nigerian government would continue to back institutions tasked with conducting credible polls across the country.
“Fellow Nigerians, I assure you that the Federal Government under my administration will continue to support institutions responsible for delivering free, fair, and credible elections,” the President stated.
Addressing residents of the affected areas, Tinubu expressed confidence in the outcome of the exercise and commended citizens for their civic commitment.
“To all residents of the FCT, Kano and Rivers, I commend your civic consciousness. I am confident that these elections will reflect the will of the people and further strengthen our democratic journey as a nation,” he added.
