The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers State on Thursday, January 22, 2026, held a strategic engagement with Electoral Officers, to review the progress of the ongoing second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
Focus of the meeting was on the critical transition of the registration process from Local Government Area (LGA) offices to the Registration Areas (RAs) and Wards.
This devolution is designed to bring the exercise closer to the grassroots, ensuring that eligible citizens in rural and remote communities can participate in the democratic process without the burden of long-distance travel.
During the session, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Rivers State, Professor Gabriel Yomere, charged the Electoral Officers across the 23 LGAs to demonstrate the highest levels of integrity and professionalism.
He emphasised that as the exercise moves into its next stage, the Commission’s primary goal is to provide a seamless and inclusive experience for all registrants.
Prof. Yomere underscored the importance of ensuring that the rotational schedule for the Ward-level registration is strictly followed and that all personnel remain committed to the Commission’s standards of fairness and accountability.
To ensure the success of the devolution, the REC further urged the officers to intensify public awareness campaigns within their respective jurisdictions.
By engaging with community leaders, local stakeholders, and the media, the Commission aims to maximize turnout and address any potential misinformation regarding the registration process.
Prof. Yomere concluded by reiterating that transparency remains the bedrock of INEC’s operations, as the Commission continues to build a robust and credible voter register ahead of future elections.
