Bill To Establish LG Electoral Commission Passes 2nd Reading

The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to establish the National Local Government Electoral Commission.

This independent body will be responsible for organising, conducting, and supervising elections into the offices of chairmen, vice chairmen, and Councilors across the country.

Sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, the bill was read on the floor of the House by the Majority Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere.

Speaking on the general principles of the bill, Kalu explained that if established, the commission will be tasked with ensuring credibility, transparency, and fairness in local government elections while promoting democratic governance at the grassroots.

According to the draft of the bill, the commission will comprise a Chairman and 37 members representing the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The bill provides that the Chairman, who will serve as the Chief Electoral Officer, and other board members will be appointed by the President on the recommendation of the National Council of State, subject to Senate confirmation.

“The Commission shall provide periodic reports on its activities and the outcomes of local government elections to the President, the National Assembly, and the general public, thereby promoting transparency and accountability in its operations,” the bill stated

It further seeks to amend Section 153 of the 1999 Constitution to empower the commission to regulate the conduct of political parties and their candidates during local government elections.

“It will also set election timetables, manage polling processes, and ensure compliance with electoral laws.”

“It will oversee voter registration, maintain an accurate and up-to-date voter register, and ensure that eligible citizens have access to participate in the electoral process.”

“The Commission will regulate and monitor political parties, candidates, and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with campaign finance laws, electoral codes of conduct, and other regulations”.

“It will also design and implement voter education programmes to inform the public about the importance of local government elections, their roles as voters, and the electoral process, thereby reducing voter apathy.”

The bill also stipulates that the Secretary of the Board shall be appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Commission’s board and must be a legal practitioner with at least 10 years of experience.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Blessing Nyor