In a significant move to ensure transparency, security, and public trust ahead of the upcoming Babura/Garki Federal Constituency by-election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Thursday convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting at its office in Babura, Jigawa State.

The by-election, scheduled for August 16, 2025, was necessitated by the untimely death of Hon. Isa Dogonyaro Yaro, the former representative of the constituency, who passed away on May 10, 2024, at the age of 46. The seat, which became vacant following his demise, has sparked renewed political interest in the region, drawing attention from major political parties, civil society organisations, and community leaders.

The by-election is expected to be hotly contested, with Nigeria’s two major political parties the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) fielding strong candidates. The APC has nominated Rabiu Mukhtar, while the PDP is backing Auwalu Manzo. Both candidates are well-known figures in the region and are expected to drive vigorous campaigns in the coming weeks.

The stakeholders’ meeting, held at INEC’s local office in Babura, brought together a broad spectrum of participants, including representatives from political parties, security agencies, traditional and community leaders, civil society groups, election observers, and members of transport workers’ unions.

Addressing the gathering, the Electoral Officer of Babura Local Government Area, Mr. Hafiz Khalid, emphasized the commission’s commitment to a credible and transparent process. He outlined the schedule of election activities and appealed for the support of all stakeholders in ensuring a peaceful, fair, and orderly exercise.

“The by-election is not just the responsibility of INEC it is a collective duty. We are here to foster cooperation and openness. Every stakeholder has a role to play in guaranteeing a credible outcome,” Khalid stated.

He described the meeting as an opportunity for honest engagement, enabling stakeholders to raise concerns, ask questions, and make meaningful contributions that could enhance the conduct of the electoral process.

Discussions at the meeting covered key areas including logistics, security arrangements, voter sensitisation, and the expected conduct of political parties and their supporters. Stakeholders raised concerns about the timely distribution of election materials, challenges in reaching remote polling units, and the need to guarantee a fair and level playing field for all contestants.

Representatives of security agencies present at the meeting assured attendees of their readiness to maintain law and order throughout the electoral process. One senior security officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated:

“We are fully prepared to support INEC in delivering a peaceful election. Measures have been put in place to ensure that voters, electoral officials, and observers are safe on election day. Our focus is on preventing violence and guaranteeing public confidence in the system.”

Traditional and Civic Support

The District Head of Babura, Alhaji Muhd Mustapha, was among the traditional rulers who attended the meeting. In his remarks, he commended INEC’s proactive approach and pledged the support of traditional institutions in mobilising their communities for peaceful participation.

“We stand with INEC in this important task. As community leaders, we will do our part to maintain peace and support voter education efforts,” he said.

Civil society organisations and grassroots groups also voiced optimism about INEC’s preparedness. Nura Abubakar, a representative of a community-based organisation, praised the commission’s outreach efforts:

“This meeting shows that INEC is serious about transparency and engagement. We are optimistic that they will conduct a free and fair election.”

Similarly, Haruna Aminu of the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) underscored the role of the transport sector in ensuring timely and safe movement of election materials and personnel:

“We’ve been educated on our responsibilities in this process. We are committed to playing our part to ensure success,” he said.

The meeting concluded with a joint resolution by all stakeholders to support INEC’s efforts in delivering a credible, peaceful, and inclusive by-election. Representatives of political parties, civil society groups, traditional institutions, and security agencies all reaffirmed their commitment to working in synergy to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

INEC officials reiterated their promise to maintain transparency and accountability at every stage, assuring stakeholders that adequate preparations were underway to address logistical challenges and ensure smooth operations on election day.

As the August 16 date draws near, all eyes are on the Babura/Garki Federal Constituency, where the political climate is intensifying. With voter expectations high and stakeholders actively involved, the by-election is shaping up to be a defining test of electoral credibility in Jigawa State.