By Abraham Abubakar
The Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting credible, peaceful and transparent Local Government elections scheduled for October 17, 2026, during an oversight visit by the House Committee on SIEC to the Commission.
Speaking to the Lawmakers, the Chairman of KOSIEC, Honourable Mamman Nda Eri, explained that the Commission has been working tirelessly to strengthen electoral integrity, institutional capacity and stakeholder confidence since giving notice of the elections.
He noted that preparations have advanced into an operational phase, with training of electoral personnel, deployment of Returning Officers and logistics for sensitive materials already underway.
The Chairman emphasised that inclusivity remains a priority, with special programmes designed to ensure that persons with disabilities, women and youths can participate fully in the electoral process. “Our objective is to deliver an election that is credible, peaceful, transparent, inclusive and acceptable to the people of Kogi State,” Hon. Eri said.
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He stressed that the credibility of elections depends not only on Election Day but on careful planning, effective security coordination and stakeholder cooperation throughout the electoral cycle.
KOSIEC’s achievements include sustained consultations with political parties, civil society organisations, traditional institutions and security agencies; intensified training for polling officials to ensure professionalism and adherence to guidelines; and comprehensive logistics arrangements for the secure custody and timely distribution of electoral materials.
The Commission has also expanded its voter education initiatives to promote awareness of electoral procedures and civic responsibilities, while strengthening its communication systems to ensure accurate and timely dissemination of information.
In addition, it has launched its official website, www.kosiec.org, to enhance transparency and public access to electoral updates.
Earlier, the Chairman of the House Committee on SIEC, Hon. Suleiman Abdulrazak, explained that the committee’s visit was part of its oversight functions to assess the Commission’s preparedness and identify challenges ahead of the elections.
He commended Governor Ahmed Ododo for his unwavering support and visionary leadership, noting that the Governor’s interventions have transformed KOSIEC into a model institution. “Governor Ododo has demonstrated uncommon commitment to democracy by providing operational vehicles, renovating facilities, and ensuring that the Commission is equipped to deliver free and fair elections. His dedication is a clear reflection of his passion for grassroots governance and the strengthening of democratic institutions in Kogi State,” Hon. Abdulrazak stated.
While appreciating the Governor’s support, Hon. Nda Eri added that the Commission looks forward to continued collaboration to consolidate its independence and professionalism. With preparations nearing completion, KOSIEC assured both the lawmakers and the electorate that the October 17 elections will be conducted in line with democratic principles, strengthening grassroots democracy and public confidence in the electoral process.
