The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Niger State has stepped up preparations for the upcoming bye-election in the Munya State Constituency, scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025.
During a stakeholders’ meeting held Wednesday at the INEC Collation Centre in Minna, political party representatives, security agencies, and civil society organisations were briefed on the commission’s plans to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible election.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Ahmed Garki, explained that the bye-election became necessary following the death of the constituency’s representative on September 13, 2024.
“You will recall that we lost a member representing Munya State Constituency through death. The unfortunate incident occurred on September 13, 2024. Consequently, the commission has fixed Saturday, August 16, 2025, for a bye-election to fill the vacancy,” he stated.
Garki announced that the election will be held across 11 wards and 119 polling units, with 62,459 registered voters. Of these, 59,264 have collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
He added that 528 polling officials will be deployed to facilitate a smooth electoral process.
According to INEC’s timetable, political party primaries are to be conducted between July 17 and 21, while nomination submissions via the INEC portal are scheduled from July 22 to 26. Campaigns will run from August 2 until midnight on August 14.
In a related announcement, INEC confirmed the resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise nationwide. Online pre-registration will begin on August 18, followed by physical registration at all INEC state and local government offices starting August 25.
In Niger State, the CVR exercise will take place at the state headquarters and across all 25 local government areas.
Heads of INEC departments at the meeting provided additional details on the electoral process, including party primary guidelines, campaign regulations, and voter registration procedures.
Emphasis was placed on the dual CVR format—online and in-person—to ensure wider accessibility and participation.
Security agencies reassured residents of Munya of a safe and secure electoral environment. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Aminu Garba, alongside officials from the State Security Service, urged the public to cooperate with security personnel during the election period.
“I assure all residents of Munya that adequate security arrangements have been made. We are fully prepared for the safety of materials, personnel, and voters throughout the election process,” said DCP Garba.
The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Mohammed Bello, also urged political parties and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully before, during, and after the polls.
With all operational plans in place, INEC reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a credible bye-election in Munya and encouraged eligible voters to participate actively.
The exercise is expected to set a standard for electoral transparency and voter confidence in Niger State.
By Anna Moses
