The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, has affirmed the commission’s readiness and competence to oversee local government (LG) elections across Nigeria.
This announcement follows the recent Supreme Court ruling granting financial autonomy to local governments, marking a potential shift in the electoral landscape.
Yakubu made these remarks during a presentation to a Joint National Assembly Committee on Electoral Matters, where he outlined the budget for the upcoming off-cycle elections in Ondo and Edo States.
He stated that INEC, which currently conducts elections in the 62 wards of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is fully capable of managing elections in all 774 local government areas nationwide, provided certain amendments are made to the electoral laws.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the election has always been skewed in favour of the ruling party.
Yakubu highlighted INEC’s advancements in electoral technology, urging the public to recognize the improvements made since the 2023 presidential election.
He specifically mentioned the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal, asserting that the commission had addressed the issues that led to malfunctions during the previous elections.
“We have learnt our lessons and have significantly improved our technological infrastructure,” Yakubu assured.
Addressing concerns about funding, Yakubu stated that the commission has no apprehensions regarding the finances needed for the off-cycle elections.
He mentioned that the executive branch has committed to releasing the necessary funds for the upcoming seven by-elections, thus ensuring that the commission can carry out its duties without financial constraints.
Furthermore, Yakubu called on the lawmakers to expedite the passage of the Electoral Offenders Bill.
He emphasised that the bill’s approval would equip INEC with the legal framework and resources necessary to tackle electoral malpractices effectively.
“The passage of this bill is crucial for empowering the commission to arrest, investigate, and prosecute electoral offenders,” he stated.
The Supreme Court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to local governments is seen as a pivotal moment that could redefine the role of INEC in conducting LG elections, potentially leading to more standardised and transparent electoral processes at the local level.
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