Borno insecurity blocks INEC voter registration in four LGAs

DDM News

(DDM) – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that insecurity is preventing voter registration in four local government areas of Borno State.

The affected LGAs are Abadam, Guzamala, Kala-Balge, and Marte.

Abubakar Ahmed Ma’aji, the Borno Resident Electoral Commissioner, disclosed this during a press conference in Maiduguri on Friday.

He explained that due to security concerns, voter registration for these LGAs will be conducted at alternative locations within Maiduguri metropolis.

Residents of Abadam are to register at Yerwa Peace, Baga Road, Maiduguri.

Those from Guzamala will register at the Fire Service Department in 1,000 Housing Estate, Maiduguri.

Eligible voters from Kala-Balge will use Goni Kachallari Primary School, Mafa Road, Maiduguri.

For Marte, the registration center will be at Kachamari, opposite Shettiram Filling Station, Gamboru-Ngala Road, Maiduguri.

Ma’aji said the continuous voter registration exercise will begin on Monday, August 18, 2025, and will be conducted in three phases.

Phase one will run from August 28 to December 10, with the register displayed from December 15 to December 21.

Phase two will run from January 5 to April 17, 2026, with the register displayed from April 20 to April 26.

Phase three will run from May 4 to August 17, 2026, with the register displayed from August 24 to August 30.

Ma’aji urged all eligible citizens to take part in the exercise despite the relocation of registration centers.

He described the process as a national call to civic duty.

The REC appealed to the media for partnership and to the public for cooperation.

He assured that INEC will provide regular updates throughout the registration process.

Security challenges in Borno have long hindered electoral activities in some local governments.

DDM notes that the ongoing conflict with insurgent groups continues to affect residents’ access to democratic participation.

Observers have expressed concern that displaced residents may still face barriers despite the relocation of centers.

INEC says it is committed to ensuring every eligible voter has a chance to register before the elections.

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