The Local Government Election Bill is the primary focus of the National Assembly’s agenda.
As the National Assembly reconvenes for its plenary session next week, a significant proposal aimed at reforming the local government election process will be the main focus.
The discussions will primarily focus on the constitutional amendment, the 2025 budget, and the proposed changes to judicial laws aimed at strengthening the supreme authority of local government autonomy.
The legislation aimed at establishing a body to oversee local government elections, championed by Senator Mohammed Sani Musa of Niger East, will be a key focus as states initiate preparations for these elections.
The proposed legislation aims to create the National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission (NILGEC).
This new body would take over the responsibility from the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) for overseeing elections for local government chairpersons and councillors.
The bill has attracted considerable interest and is anticipated to be expedited through the legislative process.w
However, despite its current momentum, there are potential constitutional issues that may arise.
Insiders in the National Assembly have indicated that modifying Section 197(1) of the constitution, which mandates the establishment of SIECs in every state, will necessitate the consent of the State Houses of Assembly.
