The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the country’s 36 state governors to disclose detailed information about the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) operating within their jurisdictions.
SERAP emphasized the need for governors to provide comprehensive data regarding the qualifications, political affiliations (if any), and appointment mechanisms of SIEC chairpersons and members.
Additionally, the organization stressed the importance of making public reports on local government elections conducted since 1999, including voter registers.
Highlighting concerns raised by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, SERAP underscored the significance of fair and impartial local government elections, urging governors to adhere to constitutional provisions and international standards.
Expressing dismay over reported interference by governors in SIEC operations, SERAP emphasized the detrimental impact on citizens’ right to effective participation in governance.
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In a Freedom of Information request dated June 1, 2024, SERAP called upon governors to uphold the independence of electoral commissions and ensure fair conduct of elections.
The organization warned of legal action to compel compliance if governors fail to act within seven days.
SERAP emphasized the urgency of conducting elections under truly independent electoral bodies to restore public trust and confidence in the electoral process.
Furthermore, it highlighted systemic challenges facing SIECs and called for reforms to safeguard electoral integrity and ensure effective functioning.
Quoting constitutional provisions, SERAP reiterated the importance of upholding SIECs’ independence and fulfilling constitutional and international obligations to promote transparent elections at the local government level.
