Why INEC, Not NILGEC, Should Oversee Local Government Elections

By Saintmoses Eromosele

Recently, there has been a proposal for establishing the National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission (NILGEC), an independent body intended to oversee the conduct of local government elections in Nigeria. While this idea might seem promising, it raises significant concerns that should not be overlooked by anyone who values efficient governance and fiscal responsibility.

The proposal for NILGEC was introduced by certain political actors and stakeholders within Nigeria’s legislative framework. These proponents argue that a dedicated commission for local government elections could enhance transparency and accountability at the grassroots level.

The main argument for NILGEC is the perceived inefficiency and partisanship of the current structure, where State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) conduct local government elections. Proponents believe that NILGEC could ensure a more standardized and impartial process, free from the undue influence of state governments.

Public opinion on NILGEC is divided. Supporters argue that it would address the persistent issues of rigging and manipulation that have plagued local government elections, bringing much-needed national oversight to the process and fostering true democracy at the grassroots level.

On the other hand, critics contend that NILGEC would be a redundant and costly addition to Nigeria’s already bloated bureaucracy. They express concerns that the creation of NILGEC might lead to power struggles between federal and state governments, potentially disrupting the delicate balance of Nigeria’s federal structure.

While the intentions behind NILGEC may seem well-founded, there are significant flaws in this proposal. First, the claim that NILGEC would solve the problem of partisanship ignores the fact that partisanship can occur at any level of government, including a new national body like NILGEC. Furthermore, the introduction of NILGEC could lead to constitutional conflicts, as it would require significant amendments to the 1999 Constitution, which currently grants SIECs the power to manage local elections.

In my view, the creation of NILGEC is a costly and redundant measure. Instead, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be entrusted with the responsibility of conducting these elections. Here are five compelling reasons why this approach is better for Nigeria:

INEC, already responsible for conducting federal and state elections, is well-positioned to manage local government elections. This would ensure that all elections—federal, state, or local—are conducted under the same standards and frameworks, fostering a more streamlined electoral process.

Expanding INEC’s mandate to include local government elections is a more straightforward and constitutionally consistent solution, avoiding potential legal and administrative conflicts that NILGEC could introduce.

Establishing a new electoral body would require significant financial outlay, which is unjustifiable given Nigeria’s current economic situation. INEC already has the infrastructure and expertise to conduct these elections, allowing the government to save billions of naira.

INEC has already built credibility and public trust. A new commission like NILGEC would need years to achieve the same, if ever. Expanding INEC’s role would enhance the legitimacy of local government elections by building on existing trust.

The proposed NILGEC would add another layer of bureaucracy to Nigeria’s already bloated public sector. Entrusting INEC with local government elections would streamline government operations and ensure better resource allocation.

In conclusion, the Federal Government should empower INEC to manage local government elections, ensuring a more efficient, cost-effective, and credible electoral process that benefits all Nigerians.

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Saintmoses Eromosele is a public affairs commentator and the Executive Director of the Oneghe Sele Foundation. He writes from his cassava farm in Ewu.