The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, has shared his concern over the high cost of conducting elections in Nigeria.

Speaking via a statement on Friday while defending the 2024 budget implementation before the National Assembly, Yakubu lamented that the cost was exorbitant and burdensome.

The electoral body boss pointed out that despite INEC being one of the largest employers in the country, it operated on a reduced budget of ₦40 billion, significantly lower than the ₦80 billion initially requested

He emphasized the financial strain this has placed on the commission’s ability to carry out its responsibilities effectively.

In a bid to address these challenges, he appealed to the lawmakers to organize a retreat where both the legislature and INEC can collaborate, exchange ideas, and find solutions to the pressing issues affecting the electoral process in Nigeria.

“We need a major conversation, the commission cannot continue conducting election all year round,” he said.

Yakubu further lamented the deteriorating state of INEC’s facilities, particularly the 860 buildings across the country, which are in urgent need of repair.

He urged the National Assembly to ensure that the electoral body, which has now submitted a 126 billion naira budget proposal, receives adequate funding.