The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISIEC) for the prompt release of the voters’ register ahead of the August 9, 2025, local government elections in Rivers State.

HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emma Onwubiko, described the move as a vital step toward ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process. The rights group noted that the timely action by the electoral bodies aligns with the provisions of the Electoral Act and sets the stage for free and fair elections.

The release of the register followed a formal request from RISIEC, made in a letter dated March 3, 2025, and signed by its Chairman, Hon. Justice Adolphus Enebeli. Citing Sections 9(1)(a) and 15 of the Electoral Act 2022, RISIEC emphasized that the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on local government administration in the state had necessitated fresh elections.

In response, INEC, through a letter dated March 13 and signed by its Secretary, Rose Oriaran, approved the request and instructed RISIEC to liaise with its Rivers State office for the collection of the soft copy of the voters’ register and the updated list of registered political parties.

Welcoming the development, HURIWA called on political stakeholders, civil society organizations, and election observers to actively engage in the process to ensure credibility.

The group stressed the need for INEC to take decisive actions that will foster peaceful, inclusive, and transparent elections.

HURIWA also urged political parties to conduct issue-based campaigns while adhering to electoral laws, warning against any actions that could undermine the integrity of the polls. Additionally, the group emphasized the role of civil society organizations and the media in monitoring the election process and ensuring accountability.