ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — Nigeria’s nominee to head the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has signaled hesitation over proposals for the federal body to take control of local government elections, warning that such a move could overwhelm the already stretched commission.
Professor Joash Amupitan, nominated by President Bola Tinubu to lead the electoral umpire, made the remarks during his Senate screening on Thursday. While acknowledging widespread calls for INEC to assume responsibility for local polls — currently managed by state electoral commissions often accused of bias and manipulation — Amupitan cautioned that the shift could create logistical chaos.
“This issue has been debated widely,” Amupitan said. “Many believe INEC should take over because of what is happening in the LGs. But is it not going to add another burden on INEC if we are to conduct elections in over 700 local governments?”
Critics say state-run local elections are routinely rigged in favor of ruling parties, undermining democracy at the grassroots level. Civil society groups have long demanded INEC’s intervention to restore credibility, but successive administrations have resisted the change.
Amupitan’s comments suggest the federal government may be reluctant to disrupt the status quo, despite growing pressure. “We’ll examine the option,” he said, “but it’s not something I have answers to for now.”
The nominee’s equivocation has sparked concern among reform advocates, who fear that INEC’s independence could be compromised under political pressure. His confirmation is pending Senate approval.
