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INEC rejects N40b allocation in 2025 budget, proposes N126b

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the N40 billion allocated to it for the 2025 budget, stating that it is insufficient to cover its expenses. Instead, INEC has proposed a budget of N126 billion to the National Assembly, explaining that the higher amount is necessary for conducting elections and fulfilling its constitutional duties.

During a budget defense session with the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on INEC and Electoral Matters, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, stressed that elections in Nigeria are costly and require adequate funding. He noted that the proposed N40 billion would not cover even one-third of the commission’s projected expenses.

Professor Yakubu outlined that the N126 billion would fund off-cycle elections for 21 constituencies, the Anambra governorship election, and personnel costs influenced by the new minimum wage. He also highlighted how INEC previously relied on additional funds in 2024, including N10.5 billion for Edo and Ondo elections and N500 million for bye-elections in affected constituencies.

Members of the Joint Committee, impressed by the detailed proposal, assured INEC of their support. Senator Ireti Kingibe emphasized the importance of securing the full N126 billion, stating that it is essential to provide the required funding for INEC’s operations.

Following the session, the committee held a closed-door meeting with INEC officials to discuss ways to source and appropriate the requested funds in the 2025 budget.

This development highlights the importance of sufficient funding for electoral processes in Nigeria and the need for strategic planning to ensure free and fair elections.

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