Which of the following is NOT among the stages of elections?

Analyze the question: We are asked to find the option that is NOT a stage of an election. In other words, four options are steps in the electoral process and one is not.

Concept: An election is a process with stages that lead up to the casting and counting of votes. In Nigeria, the main stages are:

1. Enactment of electoral laws (promulgation of electoral acts) sets the rules.
2. Establishment of an electoral commission (such as INEC) to organise and supervise the election.
3. Delimitation of constituencies divides the country into electoral areas.
4. Registration of voters creates the voters' register.
5. Registration of political parties and nomination of candidates.
6. Campaigning.
7. Voting (polling).
8. Counting of votes and declaration of results.

Going through the options:

• A. Establishment of an electoral commission: This is a pre-election stage, so it is part of the process.
• B. Promulgation of electoral acts: The legal framework must exist before an election, so it is part of the process.
• C. Registration of political parties: Parties must be registered to field candidates, so it is part of the process.
• D. Registration of voters: This is a key stage, so it is part of the process.
• E. Swearing in of the winners into office: This happens after the election is over. It marks the beginning of the winners' tenure and is not part of conducting the election itself. It is a post-election event.

Tip: Election stages cover what happens before, during, and up to the declaration of results. Anything that happens after the results are declared, such as swearing-in or assumption of office, is not a stage of the election. Remember the order: Law → Commission → Registration → Campaign → Voting → Results.