The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged governors in all 36 states to promptly disclose the details of the chairmen and members of their State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs).
This includes their qualifications, political affiliations, and the appointment mechanisms. Additionally, SERAP calls for the release of local government election results since 1999 and the voters’ registers for these elections.
The organization seeks to clarify how states comply with the Nigerian Constitution and international standards regarding periodic local government elections, including any relevant legislation. Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), recently criticized local government elections in many states as mere formalities favoring ruling party candidates.
In a Freedom of Information request dated June 1, 2024, signed by SERAP’s deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization stressed that state governors have a constitutional duty to ensure fair and impartial local government elections conducted by independent electoral commissions. SERAP raised concerns about gubernatorial interference in SIEC operations and election manipulation, which undermine public trust and the integrity of the electoral process and democracy.
The letter noted that the appointment processes for SIEC members lack transparency, making local government elections susceptible to manipulation by state governors. SERAP requested that the governors implement the recommended measures within seven days of receiving the letter. If they fail to comply, the organization will 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 local government elections be managed by truly independent and impartial bodies. The letter partially read: “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 seven days of 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.”
