Limelight Magazine

INEC plans for inmates' voting in 2027

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Nigerian electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is planning to include inmates in correctional centres across the country among country men that will vote.

Chairman of the commission, Professor Mahmud Yakubu, disclosed this plan on Friday during a meeting with the comptroller of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche in his office.

Yakubu said INEC is taking steps to ensure that inmates in prisons can participate in the voting process and would collaborate with the Nigerian Correctional Service to arrange that.

He stated that the commission initiated meeting with prison authorities to plan how inmates would cast their votes in the next elections.

The INEC chairman stated that this includes arranging access to detention facilities to enable inmates to exercise their voting rights.

He noted that the move was part of INEC's efforts to promote inclusivity and ensure that all eligible voters, including those in detention, have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.

He urged the National Assembly to support the plan.

Youth Arise Movement Condemns Sowore's Detention

The Youth Arise Movement has condemned the arrest and detention of human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, by the Nigerian Police Force.

Sowore was detained on August 6, 2025, after responding to a police invitation.

The movement in a press release signed by its national coordinator, Comrade Babatunde Ademola, and issued to Limelight Magazine, demanded his immediate and unconditional release, citing "violations of his rights under Nigeria's 1999 Constitution and international human rights law".

He called on the Inspector General of Police and relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law, protect civil liberties, and ensure security agencies act within legal bounds.

According to the group, Sowore's continued "persecution" affects not just him, but all Nigerians believing in freedom, equity, and a better future.

"The police is a constitutional body and civil organisation that is not above criticisms. Law enforcement powers should not be used by the police to deter its critics and watchdogs.

"The case of Sowore shows just how far the authorities in Nigeria can go to silence peaceful dissent", he decried.