The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has described traditional rulers as “indispensable allies” in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy, citing their influence in mobilising citizens to register and vote.

Ibrahim Abdullahi, Yobe Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), made the remark on Wednesday during an advocacy visit to the Emir of Fika and chairman, Yobe Council of Traditional Rulers, Muhammad Idrisa, at his palace in Potiskum.

Mr Abdullahi said the continuous voter registration exercise was not only about collecting data but also about ensuring that every eligible citizen had the opportunity to decide the nation’s leadership through the ballot.

He stressed that traditional leaders, being custodians of culture and trusted voices in their communities, could help bridge gaps in awareness and counter misinformation about the process.

“Your palace is a rallying point for your subjects. When you speak on matters of national importance like voter registration, people listen and act,” the REC told the emir.

Responding, the Emir of Fika pledged to mobilise district heads, ward leaders, and opinion leaders under his domain to ensure eligible residents were registered.

“We cannot talk about development without participation in governance, and voting starts with registration,” he said.

The visit also featured inputs from the commission’s head of voter education, Nuhu Ibrahim, and head of ICT, Musa A. Musa, who outlined technical and logistical steps to improve the registration exercise in hard-to-reach areas.

The engagement reflects INEC’s strategy of working with community leaders to deepen civic participation and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.

(NAN)