The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says insecurity and poor network connectivity are threatening the smooth conduct of the ongoing continuous voter registration (CVR) exercise in Kebbi State.

The resident electoral commissioner (REC) in the state, Abubakar Sarkin-Fawa, disclosed this on Monday in Birnin Kebbi during a meeting with journalists and election stakeholders.

Mr Sarkin-Fawa said the third phase of the CVR began on Monday, May 11, and would run until June 3 on a rotational basis across the state, adding that it would also be held from July 6 to July 10 at all 21 INEC local government offices.

He said, “The exercise is taking place across the 225 wards in Kebbi to enable eligible Nigerians aged 18 and above, and those who missed earlier registrations, to obtain their permanent voter cards (PVCs).”

The exercise will also allow registered voters to transfer their registration, replace lost or damaged PVCs, and correct personal details on their voter records.

Mr Sarkin-Fawa noted that Kebbi remains among the top five states with the highest number of registrants from previous CVR phases, attributing the success to increased public awareness and residents’ commitment to the democratic process.

However, he said insecurity in some parts of the state continues to endanger registration personnel and disrupt the exercise.

“Due to insecurity in some areas, our personnel face risks, forcing us to relocate some registration activities to safer locations,” he said.

He urged stakeholders and community leaders to share timely information to help protect officials and registrants.

He also expressed concern over low turnout in some rural communities and called for stronger sensitisation and mobilisation campaigns.

“Stakeholders should use all available communication channels to encourage greater participation, especially among rural dwellers.

“Poor network connectivity in some local government areas is another challenge affecting registration,” he added.

He asked stakeholders to identify locations within registration centres where the network service “is available”.

Mr Sarkin-Fawa urged eligible residents to participate peacefully and actively within the stipulated period and reiterated INEC’s commitment to a transparent, inclusive, and credible registration process. 

(NAN)