The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that no political party in Nigeria possesses a comprehensive register of its members. Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Commission, made this statement during a conversation with journalists in Benin City. He challenged political parties to provide evidence of a complete register if they claim to have one, emphasizing that they rely on the Commission to handle all registration matters, even those within their jurisdiction.
Professor Yakubu highlighted that INEC has the largest database of citizens in Nigeria, with 93 million individuals who have completed their biometrics on its register. He expressed disappointment that political parties have not yet submitted complete records of their members, even at the ward level. Despite this, they expect the Commission to take care of everything.
He questioned the contributions of political parties to the enhancement of the democratic process, urging any party with a complete register of its members in Edo State to demonstrate it. He offered to compare their records with those submitted to INEC to expose any falsehoods. Professor Yakubu clarified that although parties claim to possess the records, they often cite logistical challenges when asked to provide them.
Regarding the ongoing Continuous Voters Registration exercise, he explained that its purpose is to enable eligible voters in the state to register, replace, and transfer their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) to a location of their choice. He also refuted claims that the youth have lost confidence in the Commission due to the outcome of the 2023 general elections.
