The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu, has confidently declared that INEC is fully capable of conducting local government elections across Nigeria. He made this declaration on Thursday during his appearance before the National Assembly Joint Committee on INEC and Electoral Matters.
When asked by committee members about INEC’s preparedness to take on the responsibility of local government elections, Prof. Yakubu stated unequivocally that the commission has the capacity, resources, and experience required to manage such elections effectively. He pointed to INEC’s proven track record in conducting federal, state, and local elections as evidence of their capability.
Prof. Yakubu said, “So if this responsibility for the conduct of local government elections is transferred to INEC, can INEC cope? The answer is yes, INEC can cope. What are we? By definition, INEC is the Independent National Electoral Commission. Right now, we do national elections, state elections, and local government elections.”
He highlighted INEC’s successful management of elections in the six Federal Capital Territory Area Councils, where they have conducted elections regularly without resorting to caretaker committees. This has ensured stability and security of tenure for elected officials. The recent amendment of the Electoral Act has provided a four-year tenure for area councils in the FCT, further bolstering INEC’s credibility in handling local elections.
Prof. Yakubu also emphasized that the electoral body’s consistent performance in off-season and bye-elections demonstrates their readiness to undertake local government elections. He pointed out that no single political party has dominated all constituencies in the FCT, showcasing the fairness and efficiency of INEC’s election processes.
He further stated, “So in terms of capacity to do it, we can do it, we have been doing it in the Federal Capital Territory.”
However, he noted that if the National Assembly decides to transfer the responsibility of local government elections to INEC, certain constitutional amendments would be necessary. This includes determining whether the Federal Government will fund these elections or if a new federal electoral commission should be established specifically for local government elections.
Prof. Yakubu stressed that while INEC should not be unbundled beyond its current responsibilities, the commission is open to handling additional duties if properly supported by legislative amendments and adequate funding.
He assured the committee that INEC is well-prepared for upcoming off-cycle elections in Edo and Ondo States, and has also budgeted for pending by-elections in seven federal and state legislative constituencies. The agency’s 2024 Budget is being supported with monthly releases from the Ministry of Finance, ensuring that INEC has the financial resources needed to fulfill its mandate.
