A bill for the creation of the National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission (NILGEC) has successfully passed its first reading in the Senate. Sponsored by Senator Sani Musa (APC – Niger East), Chairman of the Committee on Finance, the bill aims to oversee elections for the 774 local governments across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The proposed NILGEC will comprise a Chairperson and six commissioners, all appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. These officials will serve a five-year term, renewable once. According to the bill, NILGEC is designed to operate independently and free from external influence, with its budget approved by the National Assembly to ensure financial autonomy.
On the bill’s independence and autonomy, it states: “NILGEC shall operate independently, free from external influence and interference. The Commission shall have its budget, approved by the National Assembly, to ensure financial independence.”
For the electoral process and procedures, the bill mandates: “NILGEC shall develop and implement procedures for voter registration, candidate nomination, and the conduct of elections. NILGEC shall ensure the provision of necessary electoral materials and logistics for the smooth conduct of elections.”
Regarding the election timeline, the bill specifies: “NILGEC shall announce the election schedule at least six months before the date of the election. Elections for the offices of Local Government Chairman and Councillors shall be conducted every four years.”
On electoral offences and penalties, it asserts: “NILGEC shall define and enforce penalties for electoral offences, including but not limited to voter fraud, ballot stuffing, and electoral violence.”
The bill will take effect upon its passage by the National Assembly and assent by the President.
