Reps ask INEC to relocate LG offices to secure, neutral locations

The house of representatives has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to relocate its offices in LGAs to “secure and neutral” locations.

The lower legislative chamber passed the resolution during Wednesday’s plenary following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Sunday Nnamchi from Enugu state.

In recent years, INEC offices have been attacked by hoodlums, with electoral materials set ablaze.

Moving the motion, Nnamchi said the majority of the INEC’s local government offices are currently situated within the headquarters of area councils.

The legislator said this is “potentially hampering and compromising the independence” of INEC in the conduct of elections.

“This proximity exposes INEC to manipulation and control by council chairmen, particularly in areas dominated by a single political party,” he said.

“This impedes INEC’s impartiality as enshrined in section 6 of the Electoral Act 2022.

“There is a need to maintain public trust and confidence in the electoral process.”

The motion went undebated and received a unanimous ‘ayes’ when Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house, put it to a voice vote.

Consequently, the house asked INEC to make “adequate provision” in the 2025 budget proposal to accommodate the relocation of its offices from LGAs to “secure and neutral” areas.

The house mandated relevant committees to ensure compliance and report within four weeks for further
legislative action.