By Adedapo Adesanya
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Nigeria’s 36 state governors to promptly disclose the details of the chairmen and members of their State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), including their qualifications, political affiliations and the mechanisms of their appointments.
SERAP also asked the governors to release details of local government election results since 1999 and the voters’ registers for these polls.
The organisation is seeking clarification on how states have adhered to the Nigerian Constitution and international standards regarding the conduct of periodic local government elections, along with any relevant legislation.
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mr Mahmood Yakubu, recently described local government elections in many states as mere formalities favouring ruling party candidates.
However, in a Freedom of Information request dated June 1, 2024, and signed by SERAP’s deputy director, Mr Kolawole Oluwadare, the group emphasised that state governors have a constitutional duty to ensure that local government elections are conducted fairly and impartially by independent electoral commissions.
SERAP expressed concerns over reported gubernatorial interference in SIEC operations and election manipulation, which undermine public trust and the integrity of the electoral process and democracy.
The letter highlighted that the appointment processes for SIEC members lack transparency, making local government elections vulnerable to manipulation by state governors.
It requested that the governors implement the recommended measures within seven days of receiving the letter and warned that if it failed, the organisation would consider legal action to enforce compliance in the public interest.
The group reiterated that the Nigerian Constitution, the Electoral Act, and international obligations require that truly independent and impartial bodies manage local government elections.
“Local government elections in several states are susceptible to manipulation by governors. The appointment process of chairmen and members of SIECs and the operations of these commissions are shrouded in secrecy.
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel you, your states and SIECs to comply with our requests in the public interest,” the entity stated.
Modupe Gbadeyanka