Abuja, Nigeria – In an effort to ensure neutrality and prevent state government interference, the National Assembly is poised to enact a law that will empower the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct local council elections. Currently, these elections are overseen by State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) under state government supervision.
Senator Sunday Karimi, Chairman of the Senate Services Committee, announced this initiative in Abuja, stating that the move aims to insulate local councils from the influence of state governors. This decision follows a Supreme Court judgment that prohibits state governors from collecting local council allocations from the federation account.
Senator Karimi expressed confidence that the National Assembly will ensure state government compliance and amend the constitution to address contentious issues. He commended President Tinubu’s efforts to restore the autonomy of local governments, believing that such autonomy, if well-managed, will improve the lives of Nigerians.
This development has the potential to significantly impact the country’s grassroots politics and governance. By ensuring the independence of local council elections, the National Assembly aims to promote democracy and accountability at the third tier of government.