The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained that it invited the embattled National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, to its meeting with political parties based on a valid court order recognising him as the party’s leader.

Acting Chairman of the Commission, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, made the clarification on Wednesday during INEC’s regular quarterly meeting with media executives in Abuja.

She said the decision followed a ruling by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court sitting in Gwagwalada, which directed the Commission to recognise Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party.

Responding to questions on why Abure attended INEC’s meeting with political party leaders on Tuesday, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu explained that the Commission was acting in compliance with the court’s directive.

“As a law-abiding institution, INEC has always obeyed court orders. If the faction led by Mr. Lamidi Apapa or Mr. Usman Nevada presents a valid court judgment in their favour, the Commission will also comply accordingly,” she stated.

The acting INEC Chairman further reiterated the Commission’s commitment to working with the media, civil society organisations, political parties, and other stakeholders to ensure a free, fair, and credible governorship election in Anambra State.

She disclosed that 10 out of the 13 key activities outlined in the election timetable have been completed. The remaining three — publication of the notice of poll, end of campaigns, and election day — are on schedule, she added.

Agbamuche-Mbu also confirmed that all non-sensitive election materials have been delivered to Anambra State, while voter education and sensitisation efforts are ongoing ahead of the poll.

She disclosed that about 43 media organisations have applied to commission for accreditation to deploy 363 personnel for the election coverage.

She reminded journalists that the portal would close at midnight on October 24, with no extension, stressing that the accreditation tags issued by the Commission carry security codes that can be verified by security agencies, while asking accredited journalists to carry out their duties with professionalism and to always verify information with the Commission before publication.

She also informed them of the ongoing electoral activities, including preparations for the FCT Area Council Elections scheduled for February 2026, as well as the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise which will run until August 2026.

According to her, the CVR has so far recorded an impressive turnout, reflecting Nigerians’ faith in democracy and the Commission’s efforts to ensure that all eligible citizens are able to exercise their franchise.

She reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and credibility, assuring that the Commission would continue to engage stakeholders regularly to strengthen public trust in the electoral process.

She said: “Our democracy is stronger when citizens are informed, engaged, and confident in the process. We will continue to work hand in hand with the media, civil society, and all stakeholders to safeguard the vote and deepen our democratic culture.”

NUJ President, Alhassan Yahaya commend the Commission for sustaining its partnership with the media, saying it underscores the central role of the media in the electoral process.

Yahaya said, “The media remains one of the most critical stakeholders in democracy — not only as observers but as facilitators of credible, transparent, and peaceful elections. Our duty is to ensure that citizens are well informed, that political actors are held accountable, and that the process is reported with accuracy, fairness, and responsibility.

“We acknowledge INEC’s efforts to continuously improve electoral administration through technology, inclusivity, and transparency. However, these reforms must be effectively communicated to the public, and that is where the media comes in.

“It is through our reports, analyses, and engagements that citizens develop trust and understanding of the system.

“As we approach future elections, it is imperative that the collaboration between INEC and the media be deepened. We must enhance capacity building for journalists covering electoral matters, strengthen fact-checking to combat misinformation, and ensure timely access to information from INEC.”