Nigeria’s Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has renewed its call to scrap the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), citing their ineffectiveness in conducting fair Local Government elections. IPAC National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, described recent LGA election results as “daylight robbery” of people’s votes, with ruling party candidates being crowned without legitimate contests.
IPAC’s Proposal:
- Empower the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to oversee all Local Government elections, as it does for federal and state elections.
- Eliminate the need for separate Local Government electoral commissions.
- Strengthen INEC to ensure credible elections nationwide.
Dantalle emphasized that INEC, despite its imperfections, is more trustworthy than SIECs, which often serve as “rubber stamps” for governors. IPAC also addressed concerns about internal party disputes and inflammatory statements, urging parties to adhere to their constitutions and resolve conflicts without relying on the judiciary.
Key Concerns:
- Judicial Overreach: IPAC criticized the judiciary for issuing conflicting orders and judgments, undermining democracy.
- Electoral Integrity: The council seeks to prevent the manipulation of Local Government elections.
- Accountability: IPAC advocates for urgent judicial reform to address corruption and ensure justice is served.
By pushing for these changes, IPAC aims to restore credibility to Nigeria’s electoral process and promote democratic principles
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