The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cautioned election observer groups that their accreditation for the Edo and Ondo governorship polls can be revoked at any time if they violate the commission’s code of conduct.
Speaking at a training session for election observers in Abuja, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Election and Party Monitoring Committee, Sam Olumekun, emphasized that accredited groups must adhere to the rules to retain their accreditation. He reminded them that INEC does not provide funding for observers’ accreditation and stressed the importance of integrity in election observation.
Olumekun warned that any violation of the Code of Conduct for observers could lead to the withdrawal of accreditation at any stage of the election process. He encouraged observer groups to update their records with the Corporate Affairs Commission and select trained observers who can ensure accurate reporting in line with INEC guidelines.
The commission had accredited 134 international and local observer groups, including gender-based, faith-based, and disability-focused organizations, for the elections.
