Reps order INEC to leave local govt council premises nationwide

The House of Representatives has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to move all its local government offices out of the 774 council headquarters in Nigeria to neutral locations.

This decision addresses concerns that INEC’s presence within council secretariats compromises its independence, particularly in states dominated by a single political party.

The resolution was unanimously adopted following a motion titled “Urgent Need to Relocate INEC Local Government Offices to Neutral Venues,” sponsored by Prof. Paul Nnamchi, the representative for Enugu East/Isi-Uzo federal constituency, on Wednesday.

Professor Nnamchi, in support of the motion, referenced Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution, which he argued guarantees INEC’s autonomy and independence in conducting national elections.

The Labour Party representative pointed out that most of INEC’s local government offices are located within local government headquarters, suggesting that this arrangement could hinder and compromise INEC’s independence during elections.

“This proximity exposes INEC to undue interference from interest groups, especially in areas dominated by a single political party, which impairs INEC’s impartiality as outlined in Section 6 of the Electoral Act 2022,” Nnamchi argued.

He, who also serves as the House Committee Chairman on the Nigeria Republic of Island Parliamentary Friendship Association and Deputy Chairman of the Southeast Development Commission, emphasized that relocating INEC offices is essential to uphold public trust and confidence in the electoral process.

After considering the motion and arguments presented by Professor Nnamchi, the House urged INEC to include budgetary provisions for the relocation process in the 2025 budget.

Additionally, the House directed its Committee on Electoral Reforms to work with INEC and other relevant stakeholders to ensure compliance and report back within four weeks.

Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at NeptunePrime.

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