The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has described Saturday’s bye-elections in Gombe, Kano, Bauchi and Delta states as an opportunity to test its systems and logistics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, said the commission would use lessons from the four bye-elections to improve its preparations for the nationwide polls.

Amupitan spoke while monitoring the elections from the commission’s National Situation Room at its headquarters in Abuja on Saturday.

The elections were held in the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State, Dawakin Kudu State Constituency of Kano State, Sakwa and Disina State Constituencies of Bauchi State, and Udu State Constituency of Delta State.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary/Media Adviser, Adedayo Oketola, the INEC chairman said every election provided an opportunity for the commission to assess its readiness.

“These four bye-elections provide indispensable operational lessons for the Commission as we systematically chart our roadmap toward the 2027 General Election,” Amupitan said.

He said the commission would use the exercises to assess its logistics, technology and administrative preparations.

According to him, the commission must not treat bye-elections as routine exercises because they provide important lessons that could strengthen future elections.

Amupitan personally monitored reports from the various locations alongside National Commissioners and senior officials of the commission.

He said some operational challenges identified before the elections were addressed promptly.

The INEC chairman said the National Situation Room was also being used to monitor developments and resolve problems that could affect the smooth conduct of the elections.

“We will continue to improve our processes to achieve greater efficiency and build public confidence in future elections,” Amupitan said.

Paul Masiyer, the All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant for Mangu/Bokkos Federal Constituency of Plateau State, has withdrawn the lawsuit he instituted against his party over the recently concluded primaries.

Mr Masiyer, who disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Jos, said the move followed intervention by critical party stakeholders.

Recall that Ishaya Lalu defeated Mr Masiyer to emerge as the APC candidate for the constituency ahead of the general elections.

Dissatisfied with the outcome of the primaries, Mr Masiyer approached the Federal High Court, Jos, challenging his defeat.

Mr Masiyer explained that his decision to withdraw the lawsuit was also informed by his Christian teachings, as well as the interest of peace and progress in the constituency.

“I have decided to withdraw the lawsuit I instituted against my party, the APC, regarding the recent primaries for Bokkos/Mangu federal constituency.

“I have instructed my legal team to immediately abide by this directive.

“This decision is born out of profound respect for the wisdom of our elders and the overarching need for unity within the party and our constituency.

“While pursuing legal redress is within my right, leadership often requires sacrifices for peace, harmony and progress.

“We cannot build a stronger, prosperous party and constituency if our house remains divided,” he said.

Mr Masiyer, however, called on his supporters to respect his decision and support all APC candidates in the state in the 2027 general elections.

(NAN)