A new bill seeking to establish a federal agency responsible for conducting local government elections in Nigeria has been introduced in the Senate. The proposed legislation, titled the “Local Government Independent Electoral Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2024” (SB. 531), was sponsored by Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance.
Key Functions and Powers
The bill proposes the establishment of the National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission (NILGEC), which would be responsible for conducting elections for local government chairmen and councillors. NILGEC’s functions and powers would 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 and staff
– Monitoring and supervising electoral activities and processes
– Investigating and adjudicating electoral disputes and grievances
Independence and Autonomy
NILGEC would operate independently, free from external influence and interference, with its own budget approved by the National Assembly. The commission would consist of a chairperson and six commissioners, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, serving a five-year term renewable once.
Electoral Process and Procedures
NILGEC would develop and implement procedures for voter registration, candidate nomination, and the conduct of elections. The commission would ensure the provision of necessary electoral materials and logistics, announce the election schedule at least six months before the date of the election, and conduct elections every four years.
Electoral Offenses and Penalties
NILGEC would define and enforce penalties for electoral offenses, including voter fraud, ballot stuffing, and electoral violence. Offenders would be prosecuted and punished in accordance with the laws of the land.
Collaboration and Transfer of Powers
NILGEC would collaborate with other relevant government agencies, security forces, and civil society organizations to ensure a secure and credible electoral process. Upon its establishment, all powers and functions related to the conduct of local government elections previously vested in any other body or authority would be transferred to NILGEC.
Effective Date
The proposed bill would come into effect upon its passage by the National Assembly and assent by the President.
