The National Secretary of the Forum of States Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) and Chairman of the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) Associate Prof. Mike Ushie, has emphasised the significance of local government elections, saying that their conduct will foster economic growth and lessen the poverty and hardship that currently exist.
Associate Professor Mike Ushie made this known as a guest lecturer during the two-day pre-election training and enlightenment seminar for board members, staff, and shareholders in the election process on “Effective Conduct of the 2024 Local Government Election” hosted by the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) on Tuesday, March 5–6, 2024, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Mike Ushie in his presentation on the “Emerging Issues in Local Government Elections in Nigeria”, discussed issues of independence and funding, integrity and transparency of SIECs, cooperation by the shareholders and political parties, vote buying or trading, electoral violence, voters’ apathy, electronic voting option, etc as issues that must be addressed to ensure a smooth, free, fair and credible election in the third tier of governance.
The CROSIEC Chairman also stated that the conduct of the Local Government elections will encourage participation and give the local voters a sense of belonging. He pointed out that each local government council will engage a good number of elected officials and appointees as families will be touched as a consequence.
Additionally, the guest lecturer seeks cooperation, understanding, and support from the governments, especially at this critical moment of our National life.
