The Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC) has rescheduled the Local Government elections to October 5, 2024.
Initially slated for July 6, 2024, and later moved to November 16, the new date was announced on Wednesday by the Commission’s Chairman, Dr. John Chen, during a meeting with the Benue State House of Assembly Standing Committee on Electoral Matters and Civil Society.
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Represented by the Commission’s Secretary, Dr. Vincent Gisaor, Dr. Chen cited a recent Supreme Court ruling as the reason for the date change.
He emphasized the Commission’s collaboration with stakeholders to ensure a free, fair, and credible election.
Dr. Chen also highlighted several challenges faced by the Commission, including a lack of funds and operational vehicles.
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He noted the importance of addressing these issues to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections.
Mr. Abu Umoru, Chairman of the Standing Committee, urged the Commission to prepare thoroughly for the elections, referencing the Supreme Court ruling that declared Caretaker Committees at the Local Government level illegitimate.
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He stressed the need for elected councils to be in place by the court’s deadline to avoid disruptions in Local Government administration.
Additionally, Mr. Umoru called for the unfreezing of the Commission’s accounts to facilitate access to funds necessary for election preparations.
