Osun REC Mutiu Agboke vows stronger INEC–NYSC collaboration, improved training and safety for corps members ahead of future elections
Nigeria’s electoral body has drawn a firm line against calls to revisit its partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), declaring that such demands will not be entertained.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, made the position known on Wednesday while receiving the NYSC State Coordinator, Ekeng Ita Kubiangha, during a courtesy visit.
‘Synergy Must Be Sustained’ — INEC REC
Agboke described suggestions that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should discontinue its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the NYSC and ASUU as misguided and damaging to the electoral process.
“It is a nonsensical talk for any Nigerian to say INEC should discontinue with the MOU between NYSC and ASUU,” he said.
According to him, collaboration between INEC and the NYSC remains central to the smooth conduct of elections, stressing that undermining the agreement could weaken electoral operations nationwide.
“The synergy between INEC and NYSC should be maintained and sustained,” he added, warning that criticisms built around the experiences of corps members on election day should not be used to discredit the system.
Safety and Training Under Review
Responding to recurring concerns about the safety of corps members during elections, Agboke assured that protective measures are put in place whenever they are deployed for national assignments.
He acknowledged, however, that training methods could be improved.
“The training should be rejigged. Let us take another look at it,” he said, noting that both INEC and the NYSC share responsibility for adequately preparing corps members for election duties.
The REC also announced plans to provide standby vehicles to transport corps members to registration areas, describing the move as timely and cost-effective.
Warning Against Internal Rivalry
Agboke further condemned reported friction between INEC Electoral Officers and NYSC Local Government Inspectors, insisting that institutional rivalry must not affect national assignments.
“We must realise the need for us to come together and achieve the same result,” he said, expressing confidence that continued engagement would strengthen cooperation ahead of future polls.
NYSC Reaffirms Commitment to Electoral Process
Earlier, NYSC State Coordinator Ekeng Ita Kubiangha highlighted the longstanding partnership between the scheme and INEC, noting that it has been instrumental in conducting elections across Nigeria.
He explained that the MOU between the two bodies is time-bound and clearly defines areas of cooperation, adding that strict adherence ensures efficiency in electoral duties involving corps members.
“Adherence to the agreement would ensure efficiency in electoral assignments involving corps members,” he said.
Kubiangha reaffirmed the NYSC’s commitment to professionalism, neutrality and full support for INEC in Osun State.
“Our corps members are part and parcel of the process. The security of our corps members is very paramount when it comes to national assignment,” he added.
Push for Digital Training Modules
The NYSC coordinator also proposed that INEC’s training materials for corps members be made available electronically before physical sessions begin. He said early access to digital modules would improve preparedness and deepen understanding of electoral procedures.
He assured that the NYSC in Osun would continue to provide unbiased support to ensure the success of all assignments entrusted to corps members.
