INEC Gears Up for By-Elections, Deploys 7,726 BVAS Machines

7,726 BVAS Machines Deployed
Over 3.5 Million Voters to Participate in By-Elections
Peace Accords Signed in Oyo, Edo Ahead of By-Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has completed its final preparations for the by-elections scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

In a major step towards a credible and transparent process, Eko Hot Blog reports that the commission has deployed 7,726 Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines to various polling units which are crucial for voter verification and are a key part of Nigeria’s modern electoral system.

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The by-elections, which are being held to fill vacant legislative seats, will be conducted in 16 constituencies across 12 different states.

The vacant positions include two senatorial seats in Anambra South and Edo Central, five seats in the House of Representatives, and nine seats in various state Houses of Assembly. Over 3.5 million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots in these contests.

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)To ensure a secure environment for the elections, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed a significant force of 20,850 officers. The aim of this security presence is to maintain law and order and prevent any disruptions.

Furthermore, to foster a peaceful electoral process, candidates in Oyo and Edo states have already signed peace accords, with similar agreements expected in other participating states.

However, not all planned by-elections will proceed. INEC has announced that polls will not be held in the Khana II constituency of Rivers State and the Talata Mafara South constituency of Zamfara State.

This decision was made due to ongoing security concerns and legal issues.

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