The Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), Plangji Daniel Cishak, has expressed concerns that scrapping state electoral commissions across Nigeria’s 36 states may not be beneficial for the growth of grassroots democracy in the country.
Speaking at a press conference held at the commission’s secretariat in Jos, Plateau State, on Tuesday, as part of the activities leading up to the 13th National Delegates Conference of the Forum of Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON), Cishak noted that, “We at PLASIEC believe that scrapping them is unconstitutional and catastrophic to the collective aspirations of our people for the creation of strong democratic structures at the grassroots.”
The call comes amid rumors that state electoral commissions may no longer be allowed to oversee local government elections in Nigeria due to perceived corruption. Cishak emphasized the importance of conferences like the upcoming 13th National Delegates Conference of the Forum of Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON), saying, “It offers electoral commissions an opportunity to engage in peer review, examine challenges, share innovations, and chart a collective path forward.”
Plateau State is set to host the FOSIECON conference, which is expected to attract dignitaries, including chairmen, commissioners, and secretaries of various state independent electoral commissions. Cishak highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “We expect to welcome no fewer than 304 delegates drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory. Their participation underscores the national significance of the issues on the table and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening local governance through credible elections.”
He stressed further that, “We are expecting three serving governors, representatives of the Forum of Nigerian House of Assembly Speakers, and members of the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters. Their participation underscores the national significance of the issues on the table and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening local governance through credible elections.”
The PLASIEC chair also commended the media’s role in the October 9, 2024, local government elections, saying, “From pre-election reportage through election day coverage to post-election tribunal proceedings, the media demonstrated professionalism, balance, and a commitment to truth.”
He expressed confidence that the conference would help clear doubts about Plateau State, showcasing it as a peaceful and stable environment for national gatherings.
The conference aims to discuss critical issues affecting state electoral commissions and chart a path forward for strengthening local governance through credible elections.
