Replicate Abuja election standards nationwide – INEC to SIECs

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called on State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) across Nigeria to fully comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act when conducting local government elections.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, gave the charge during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) in Abuja on Tuesday.

Yakubu stressed the relevance of Sections 98 to 113 and Section 151 of the Electoral Act 2022, which he said also govern local council elections, urging SIECs to ensure their processes align with these provisions.

He noted that many of the challenges facing SIECs go beyond funding, highlighting that clearly defined procedures and adherence to timelines are essential for credible elections.

He criticised a recent instance where a state issued just a 21-day notice for its local government polls, describing the act as both unlawful and impractical.

“Such short notice is a clear violation of the law and Supreme Court judgments. How can political parties conduct primaries, campaign, and organise voter education in 21 days? It is impossible to prepare, recruit and train staff, arrange logistics, or secure elections in that time,” Yakubu said.

He contrasted this with INEC’s practice in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where election timetables are released over 360 days in advance, in full compliance with legal requirements.

He advised SIECs to emulate this approach for credible outcomes.

Yakubu reiterated INEC’s commitment to supporting SIECs through technical assistance, capacity building, and the timely provision of essential materials like voters’ registers, polling unit details, and lists of political parties.

“No SIEC has ever been denied support from INEC. We have always discharged this responsibility and will continue to do so,” he affirmed.

In his remarks, FOSIECON Chairman and Kogi State Electoral Commission Chairman, Mamman Nda Eri, said the visit aimed to deepen collaboration between the two bodies.

He assured of FOSIECON’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and stronger ties with INEC.

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He stressed the importance of credible local government elections in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy from the grassroots, saying with the right support, SIECs can meet both local and international expectations for free and fair polls.