We should enhance transparency, integrity at LG elections – INEC Chair Yakubu tells SIECS

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with State Independent Electoral Commissions, SIECs.

The INEC chairman spoke during a courtesy visit to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja by the newly inaugurated members of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria, FOSIECON.

FOSIECON was led by its national chairman and chairman of the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission, Hon. Mamman Nda Eri.

Like INEC, Yakubu noted that State Electoral Commissions are creations of the Constitution, adding that both bodies have a joint responsibility to ensure credible electoral processes.

He stressed the importance of strict adherence to the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, particularly sections 98–113 and Section 151, which guide the conduct of local government elections.

Yakubu expressed concern about the quality and credibility of local government elections in many states.

“The problem is not whether elections are held, but how they are conducted. We must work to improve transparency and integrity at the local level to match the standard INEC has maintained in the FCT, where elections are held regularly and no caretaker committees have ever been appointed,” he said.

Earlier, FOSIECON Chairman Mamman Eri outlined key areas in which the body seeks INEC’s support, including technical assistance, capacity building and knowledge sharing.

“Credible local government elections are fundamental to democratic development. With INEC’s support, SIECs can deliver processes that reflect both national expectations and international standards,” Eri stated.

“Our commitment is grounded in the belief that credible local government elections are fundamental to democratic development, and that SIECs, with proper support and alignment, can deliver electoral processes that meet national and international standards.

“We are here to respectfully seek your continued support and collaboration to support the deployment of appropriate technology and systems that can improve the conduct of local government elections, to enhance the professionalism and operational efficiency of SIEC officials through joint training programmes, workshops and peer learning exchanges, to foster a platform for the exchange of best practices, research and innovations in electoral management that can benefit both INEC and SIECs.”

Members of the FOSIECON delegation included Elder Aniedi A. Ikoiwak, Hon. Barr. Genevieve Osakwe, Hon. Ahmed Makama, Hon. Lawal Alhassan Faskari and Hon. Justice Cornelius Akintayo (retd).