The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to issue a supplementary regulation to provide clarity on the interpretation and application of Section 65 of the Electoral Act, 2022, which deals with the review of election results.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, during the commission’s second quarterly consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) held at INEC headquarters in Abuja.
Professor Yakubu noted that the decision followed increasing concerns over conflicting interpretations of Section 65, emphasizing the need to address ambiguities ahead of upcoming electoral exercises.
“As we approach the bye-elections, the off-cycle governorship elections, and ultimately the 2027 General Election, the Commission is concerned with the various interpretations given to the provision of Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 on the review of election results,” Yakubu stated.
He confirmed that, under INEC’s constitutional powers to issue regulations and guidelines for the administration of elections, a supplementary document to the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections will be released. The document is expected to clarify the review process for declaration and return of results during elections.
The supplementary guidelines, he added, may be published as early as this week and will be accessible on INEC’s website and official communication channels.
The clarification comes at a critical time, with INEC set to conduct five major elections within the next 14 months. These include:
Bye-elections in 12 states scheduled for August 16, 2025
The Anambra State governorship election on November 8, 202
The Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections on February 21, 2026
The Ekiti State governorship election on June 20, 2026
The Osun State governorship election on August 8, 2026
According to Yakubu, political campaigns are underway in Anambra State, while notices of election and party primaries have concluded in both Ekiti and the FCT.
Addressing the RECs, the INEC Chairman emphasized the need for consistent state-level implementation of national policies, urging officials to proactively carry out their roles without waiting for directives from the national headquarters.
“Your work does not begin only when a general election is imminent. You are full-time commissioners,” he said. “Some of you are already taking initiative, but greater effort is required.”
He also stressed the importance of local engagement, capacity building, logistical coordination, and electoral security, adding that the success of INEC’s mission relies heavily on the preparedness and commitment of its state-based personnel.
“Elections take place in the states of the federation, and your role as managers of personnel and resources is critical. You must be knowledgeable, proactive, and committed to delivering credible elections,” Yakubu concluded.
