The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, emphasized that INEC lacks the constitutional mandate to oversee local government elections nationwide, except within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Speaking during a retreat for INEC Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), Yakubu addressed the ongoing calls for INEC to assume responsibility for local elections, stressing that such a move would require constitutional amendments. Currently, INEC's jurisdiction is confined to organizing national and state-level elections.
The retreat, held in Lagos to prepare RECs for upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states, highlighted the need for constitutional clarity regarding INEC's role. Yakubu acknowledged advocacy efforts seeking INEC's broader electoral mandate but reiterated the necessity of legal reforms to effect any changes.
Concerns over the conduct of local polls under State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) have spurred discussions on constitutional amendments, with some advocating for SIECs' dissolution to enhance electoral transparency and independence. Meanwhile, Yakubu underscored INEC's commitment to training RECs and enhancing operational capabilities in preparation for upcoming electoral challenges, emphasizing the importance of legal reforms to ensure credible electoral processes nationwide.
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