In a statement on Thursday, July 25, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), affirmed that the commission is fully prepared to oversee local government elections. Speaking before the joint Senate and House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters, Yakubu addressed INEC’s readiness for the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States, and reiterated the commission’s capability to handle local government elections as well.
Yakubu emphasized that INEC’s effective management of area council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) demonstrates its readiness for broader local government elections. He highlighted that the commission’s involvement would bring regularity, stability, and fairness to local elections, contrasting with the frequent issues seen in state-managed elections.
For INEC to take on this role, Yakubu noted that constitutional amendments would be necessary to transfer the responsibility from state electoral commissions to INEC. He argued that this shift would enhance democratic practices in Nigeria.
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