AGLA Holds Solidarity Rally, Applauds INEC for Enhanced IReV and Transparent Polls

Members of the Arewa Grassroots Leaders Assembly (AGLA) have lauded the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for what they described as remarkable progress in electoral reforms and integrity recorded in recent elections across the country.
Speaking to journalists during a peaceful solidarity rally at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, the National President of AGLA, Mr.

Onogu Collins, clarified that the gathering was not a protest of disapproval but one of appreciation for the Commission’s recent performance.
“We are here today at the INEC headquarters to show support, not to condemn but to commend. This is a solidarity rally and a demonstration of encouragement. Nigerians can see the improvements, and we urge the Commission to sustain the momentum,” he said.
Collins commended the leadership of the INEC Chairman, Professor George Amupitan, noting that since taking office in October 2025, he has shown “administrative resolve, institutional boldness, and dedication to electoral reform.”

The group highlighted that within a short timeframe, the Commission successfully conducted three major electoral exercises — the Anambra State Governorship Election, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council Elections, and by-elections in Kano and Rivers States.
According to Collins, “These elections were widely regarded by both domestic and international observers as largely peaceful, procedurally transparent, technologically advanced, and efficiently coordinated.”
AGLA particularly praised the improvements made to the INEC Results Viewing Portal (IReV), describing the upgrades as a clear advancement in Nigeria’s electoral technology framework.
Collins outlined several enhancements observed during the FCT Area Council elections and the subsequent by-elections, including stronger server performance, quicker result uploads, and the introduction of dual-layer validation processes requiring presiding officers to upload polling unit result sheets and input party scores into the BVAS device.
“The upgraded IReV system showed greater server stability and faster upload times compared to previous election cycles. Its architecture also ensured that votes recorded did not exceed the number of accredited voters, thereby safeguarding the credibility of results,” he stated.
He further explained that the digital audit trail produced verifiable metadata, including device identification numbers and upload timestamps, enabling post-election audits and strengthening public trust.
“Citizens and political parties were able to access polling unit results almost in real time, further promoting transparency and openness,” Collins added.
While expressing satisfaction with the Commission’s efforts, AGLA urged INEC to build on the progress achieved.
“Electoral reform is a continuous process, not a one-time event. We encourage the Chairman and the Commission to further enhance result management systems, expand technological deployment, intensify staff capacity-building, and work with relevant stakeholders to provide backup connectivity in underserved areas,” Collins advised.
He also appealed to political stakeholders, media organizations, and the public to engage constructively with electoral institutions and avoid spreading misinformation that could undermine public confidence.
“Democracy is strengthened when elections are credible. Any concerns should be raised responsibly and based on facts,” he emphasized.
In his response, INEC National Commissioner, Mr. Abdullahi Zuru, expressed appreciation for the show of solidarity and reassured Nigerians of the Commission’s unwavering commitment.
“We will not relent. We remain committed to taking every necessary step to ensure our democracy continues to grow. What we seek is the cooperation and understanding of all Nigerians,” Zuru said.
He noted that the INEC Chairman was away on official duties but would be informed about the rally and the group’s message of support.
Zuru stressed that all decisions and actions of the Commission are guided by the national interest.
“Every action under his leadership is taken in the best interest of Nigeria. We are dedicated to steady progress and continuous improvement,” he affirmed.
The rally ended with renewed calls for sustained transparency, protection of the electorate’s mandate, and ongoing technological advancement in Nigeria’s electoral system.