By Adeola Badru

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has voiced support for the Senate’s push to establish an independent electoral commission for local government elections, saying it is a move that would have significant implications for local governance in Nigeria.

The APC chieftain, who made this known in a statement yesterday through his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, praised the Senate’s initiative, stating that it would help to ensure free, fair and credible elections at the grassroots level.

He noted that the current system, where state governments oversee local government polls, has been marred by allegations of manipulation and lack of transparency.

Recall that a bill for the establishment of the National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission, NILGEC, has scaled first reading in the Senate.

The body will be saddled with the responsibility of conducting elections for the 774 local governments in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

The bill is coming barely a week after the Supreme Court barred the 36 governors of the federation from further retaining or utilizing funds that are meant for the 774 local government areas in the country. 

According to him, “An independent electoral umpire for local government elections is long overdue. This will go a long way in deepening democracy and restoring the confidence of citizens in the electoral process, especially at the local government level.

Mumuni, a security expert further added: “As a security expert, having profiled the local government electoral commission bill sponsored by Distinguish Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, I will want to reflect that the establishment of a local government electoral commission will help to bring many benefits to the electoral process at the local level.”

“One of the primary advantages is that it ensures fair and transparent elections within the jurisdiction. The commission will be responsible for overseeing the electoral process, including voters’ registration, candidates’ nominations, and the conduct of elections.”

“By having a dedicated body like a local government electoral commission, there would be a higher level of expertise and specialization in managing elections specifically at the local level.”

“This can lead to more efficient and effective electoral processes, reducing the likelihood of errors or irregularities in the voting process.”

“Moreover, a local government electoral commission can help build trust and confidence in the electoral system among residents of the local community. Knowing that there is an independent body overseeing the electoral process can increase public trust in the fairness and integrity of local elections.”

“Additionally, having a local government electoral commission can promote greater accountability in the electoral process.”

“These commissions are tasked with ensuring that elections are conducted in accordance with laws and regulations, holding individuals or entities accountable for any violations or misconduct during the election process.”

“Furthermore, a local government electoral commission can help to promote civic engagement and participation in local elections. By providing information on voters’ registration, candidates’ requirements, and election procedures.”

“They can empower residents to take part in the democratic process and make informed choices when voting.”

“Overall, the presence of a local government electoral commission contributes to the overall credibility and legitimacy of local elections, fostering a more robust democratic system at the grassroots level,” he stressed.