IEBC Chairperson Ethokon Edong has warned candidates in upcoming by-elections against arriving at tallying stations with truckloads of supporters or goons. He issued the caution during a media briefing in Kasipul on November 26, 2025. The commission vows to maintain peace and security at these sites.
During a media briefing in Kasipul on November 26, 2025, IEBC Chairperson Ethokon Edong outlined the commission's preparations for the Thursday by-elections on November 27. He stressed that the commission will not permit candidates to enter tallying stations accompanied by goons or individuals likely to disrupt peace. “We don't expect anyone to show up with goons or with truckloads of supporters with the objective of coming to disrupt the tallying process,” Edong stated.
Edong urged those permitted access—candidates, media, international and local observers, political party representatives, and senior leaders from participating parties—to maintain decorum, decency, and respect. “We expect decorum, we expect respect; they have to respect that space because it is a gazetted space, it is a protected space. We do not expect anyone to show up with goons,” he added.
The commission confirmed its readiness to handle any pressure from the elections. Edong anticipated a voter turnout of about 70% in the nationwide by-elections. He also assured adequate security, noting that the IEBC, alongside the National Police Service, has deployed officers to by-election areas based on risk levels. The commission will safeguard election materials, officials, and voters.