The Nigerian Senate has proposed a bill to establish a national electoral body, National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission (NILGEC), to conduct local government elections. Sponsored by Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger-East), the bill aims to replace state-independent electoral commissions.
The “Local Government Independent Electoral Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB. 531)” states: “To establish the National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission (NILGEC) responsible for conducting elections to the office of the Local Government Chairman and Councillors, and any other matter thereof to do with local government as a third tier of government.”
NILGEC’s functions and powers include:
– Conducting free, fair, and transparent elections
– Preparing and maintaining an accurate voter register
– Ensuring voter education and public awareness
– Setting and enforcing electoral guidelines and regulations
– Recruiting and training electoral officers
– Monitoring and supervising electoral activities
– Investigating and adjudicating electoral disputes
The commission will consist of a Chairperson and six Commissioners, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, serving a five-year term renewable once. NILGEC will operate independently, with its own budget approved by the National Assembly.
Key provisions:
– NILGEC shall develop procedures for voter registration, candidate nomination, and election conduct
– Elections will be conducted every four years
– Election schedule to be announced at least six months prior
– Penalties for electoral offenses, including voter fraud and electoral violence
Senator Musa’s proposal aims to ensure a neutral and credible electoral process. Upon NILGEC’s establishment, all powers related to local government elections will be transferred from other bodies to NILGEC.
“The Commission shall have its own budget, approved by the National Assembly, to ensure financial independence,” the bill states. This move seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in local government elections, addressing concerns of bias and partiality.
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