INEC, Army strengthen ties to boost electoral credibility in Plateau

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called for enhanced collaboration with the Nigerian Army’s 3 Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) to bolster Nigeria’s democratic processes and ensure credible elections.

The appeal was made by Muhammed Abubakar Sadiq, the Plateau State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), during a courtesy visit to Folusho Oyinlola, a Major General and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander Operation Save Haven (OPSH), on Tuesday at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos.

Muhammed, who assumed office in June 2025, said the visit aimed to deepen cooperation between the electoral body and security agencies, particularly in preparation for upcoming electoral activities.

He commended the Nigerian Army for its role in maintaining peace and security in Plateau State, describing the military as a crucial partner in the electoral process.

The REC emphasised that a credible and peaceful election is largely dependent on the synergy between INEC and security institutions. He specifically sought the support of the 3 Division and OPSH for the upcoming voter registration exercise scheduled to begin later this month across Plateau State’s 17 local government areas.

According to him, the exercise will accommodate new registrants and those who lost their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), with INEC’s state headquarters in Jos serving as the coordination center. He expressed confidence that with the support of security agencies, the registration exercise would be smooth and inclusive, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The registration will take place across all 17 local government areas of Plateau State, with our headquarters here in Jos serving as the coordination center. We count on your support to ensure a seamless exercise,” Muhammed stated.

In response, Oyinlola described INEC as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s democracy and praised the commission for consistently enabling citizens to exercise their right to vote, even under difficult circumstances. He assured the REC of the Army’s full support in protecting INEC personnel and ensuring peaceful electoral activities.

The GOC expressed concern over recurring electoral violence and stressed the need for continued vigilance. He proposed that INEC initiate a voter sensitisation campaign targeting military personnel and their families to boost electoral awareness and participation.

He also encouraged INEC to adopt more innovations to prevent malpractice and strengthen public confidence in the electoral system.

Both parties affirmed their shared commitment to safeguarding democracy and ensuring peaceful and credible elections in Plateau State and beyond.

The visit ended with the signing of the visitors’ register and a group photograph, symbolising a renewed partnership between the electoral commission and the Nigerian Army.