The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Ahead of the January 2027 general elections, Taraba State has called on political actors to shun inflammatory remarks and channel grievances through legal means.
Sa’ad Umar Idris, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, made the appeal on Monday during a stakeholders’ meeting on election readiness, Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, distribution and collaboration towards the 2027 general elections.
Idris further called on the media and civil society groups to fact-check information before publishing, cautioning that the increasing use of artificial intelligence could fuel fake news, misinformation, rumours and fabricated claims during the election season.
He cautioned that "Such content could be deliberately circulated to inflame public sentiments and create tension among political supporters and communities.”
The REC also called on political parties to respect electoral rules and assured stakeholders that the commission would treat all parties equally.
“To civil society and the media, your scrutiny keeps us honest, and your voter education work extends our reach to places we cannot reach alone,” he said.
While acknowledging the role of traditional and religious leaders in promoting peace, responsible conduct and harmony within their communities,
Idris reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting free, fair, credible and transparent elections in the state, disclosing that preparations for the 2027 polls were already underway.
The REC further revealed that the mapping of electoral facilities across the nooks and crannies of the state was ongoing to facilitate effective planning and appropriate arrangements for polling units.
As part of efforts to assess its preparedness, Idris said the commission was considering conducting a mock accreditation exercise in November 2026.
He also made known his INEC’s intention to collaborate with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to support transportation arrangements for election personnel and materials.
He noted that the plan involves hiring vehicles to ensure electoral officials and materials are transported to various parts of the state promptly.