Why we would continue to use corps members for elections - INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it would continue to use members of National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) for the conduct of elections in the country because corps members had contributed enormously to recent success and improvement in the overall conduct of elections in Nigeria.

Sam Olumekun, Lagos Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), stated this Thursday when the Lagos State National Youth Service management led by its new coordinator, Edwin Chinedu Mega paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos office of the commission.

In a statement yesterday by the Commission’s Lagos Public Relations Officer (PRO), Femi Akinbiyi, Olumekun thanked the coordinator for the visit and maintained that the turning point of conduct of elections in this country for good was when the NYSC was introduced into the conduct of elections in Nigeria.

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According to him, “It was quite ingenious of those who came up with the idea, and progressively things are getting better with the arrangement. Our conduct of elections is credible and enjoys international acceptability”.

He went on to appreciate the support the Commission enjoyed from the NYSC in the last general elections, especially the role played by the immediate past coordinator, Prince Mohmoh to the success achieved in the state.

Olumekun used the opportunity to inform the coordinator of the October 31st by-elections in the Lagos-east Senatorial district, and Kosofe II Constituency Lagos State House of Assembly which has about 1.4 million registered voters.

He added that by-elections would be conducted in compliance with the INEC policy in conducting elections in the context of the COVID 19 pandemic.

Iwok Iniobong

With years of experience in Nigerian journalism, Iniobong Iwok has built a reputation for deep political insight, compelling storytelling, and consistent, fact-driven reporting. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience reporting and writing incisive political analysis. Iniobong has interviewed key political figures across Nigeria and covered major national events, including the 2019 and 2023 general elections. A versatile journalist, he also has strong experience in education reporting and sector analysis. His work reflects a deep commitment to good governance and public accountability. Iniobong holds a B.Sc. in Sociology from the University of Ilorin and an M.Sc. in Sociology (Development Specialisation) from Lagos State University.