The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called on political parties in Jigawa State to intensify voter sensitisation efforts and ensure peaceful conduct ahead of the Garki/Babura federal constituency by-election scheduled for August 16, 2025.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Dutse on Wednesday, the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Professor Mahammad Lawan, stressed the importance of political parties, security agencies, and the electorate working collectively to guarantee a smooth electoral process.

The by-election was necessitated by the death of Hon. Isa Dogon Yaro, the former representative of the constituency, who passed away on May 9, 2024.

“The by-election for Babura and Garki Federal Constituencies is scheduled for August 16 this year, and we are working hard to ensure its successful conduct,” Lawan stated.
“Out of the 100 per cent preparations needed, over 30 per cent of the work has been completed.”

The REC disclosed that a significant milestone had been achieved with the successful upgrade of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), a critical technology used in voter authentication and result transmission. He, however, pointed out that voter education remained a key area requiring more effort.

“Voter sensitisation is a crucial component of our preparations. We need greater awareness to ensure effective participation and peaceful conduct,” Lawan said.

He assured stakeholders that all sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials would be delivered in full well ahead of the election date.

Lawan further appealed for the cooperation of security agencies, civil society groups, and political parties, noting that their collaboration is vital to achieving a credible poll.

“The success of the by-election will depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders. INEC cannot do it alone,” he added.

The interactive meeting drew participation from party leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and law enforcement representatives. Attendees commended INEC for the progress made so far and pledged their support to ensure a violence-free, transparent process.

Discussions also centred on the need for political actors to uphold electoral laws, avoid inflammatory rhetoric, and engage in issue-based campaigns.

With less than a month to the by-election, INEC said it remains committed to transparency and inclusiveness throughout the electoral process, reiterating its call for voters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively engage in shaping the democratic future of the state.