Sokoto Emerges Third Nationwide In INEC CVR

Sokoto State has recorded an impressive voter turnout in the recently concluded first phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, ranking third nationwide despite its relatively smaller population size.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) disclosed this on Tuesday, attributing the feat to massive public awareness and strong media engagement across the state.

Speaking while interacting with journalists in Sokoto, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Umar Yusuf Garba, revealed that the state registered over 160,000 new voters during the exercise, placing it among the top three states nationwide.

According to him, the development is significant, considering that Sokoto ranks about 17th or 18th in terms of population in Nigeria.

“Population-wise, Sokoto is not among the biggest states. Yet, during the CVR exercise, we came third nationwide. This high turnout was achieved largely through the support of newspapers and radio stations that helped us reach the people,” Garba said.

The REC noted that sustained sensitisation encouraged residents, particularly first-time voters, to participate actively in the registration process, leading to heavy turnout at registration centres across the state.

He described the relationship between INEC and the media as strategic and mutually beneficial, stressing that journalists not only report INEC activities but also provide feedback that helps the commission improve its operations.

“As human beings, not just as officials, we understand the importance of journalists. They don’t only propagate what we do; they also give us information that makes our work easier and better,” he added.

Garba explained that the first phase of the CVR ended on December 10, followed by an 11-day display period, which ran until December 21, allowing registrants to verify their details and request corrections.

He admitted that INEC could not hold a formal media briefing during the display period due to a tight schedule, but assured journalists of better engagement during the next phase.

“The period was very busy for us, but by the grace of God, during the second phase of registration, we will sit down with you and brief you properly on what we have done and the processes involved,” he said.

The INEC boss announced that the second phase of the CVR will commence on January 5 and run for about three months, targeting eligible Nigerians who have just turned 18 as well as those who have never registered.

He urged residents to avoid last-minute rush, recalling that the final days of the first phase were characterised by overcrowding at registration centres.

“This exercise lasted for months, but as usual, many Nigerians waited until last week. We advise people to come out early so we can avoid unnecessary pressure,” he warned.

Garba also assured that INEC’s system is robust enough to detect and eliminate multiple registrations, reaffirming the commission’s commitment to credible and transparent elections.

Commending INEC staff in Sokoto, he said their dedication and resilience contributed greatly to the smooth conduct of the exercise.

He concluded by restating INEC’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through transparency, continuous engagement and partnership with the media, whom he described as critical stakeholders in the electoral process.