In aHistoric Move, INEC to Conduct Local Government Elections
The National Assembly has taken a significant step towards decentralizing power in Nigeria by granting full financial and administrative autonomy to all 774 local government councils.
This move is aimed at strengthening grassroots governance and reducing undue interference from state governments.
The amendment to Section 124 of the constitution was ratified by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, paving the way for the creation of a third tier of government with full autonomy.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will now be responsible for conducting local government elections, replacing the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC).
The amendment also approved the creation of the Office of Auditor General of the Local Government and the State Local Government Service Commission.
Additionally, provisions were made for independent candidacy in future elections, amending sections 65 and 106 of the 1999 constitution.
The ratified document will now be sent to the States Houses of Assembly for approval.
