The House of Representatives Committee on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recommended that the electoral body move its offices away from local government headquarters to more neutral and secure sites.
This recommendation followed a motion brought by Prof. Paul Nnamchi (LP – Enugu) which highlighted concerns over the risks posed by the current practice of housing INEC offices at local government headquarters.
The matter was subsequently referred to the House Committee on INEC for further consideration.
During a public hearing at the National Assembly, the committee chairman, Adebayo Balogun, emphasized the need for state governors to allocate land for INEC to build offices across the country.
Balogun stated: “There must be communication between INEC or the committee and the state governors to provide land. We must make this a priority. If we talk about it enough, it will happen.”
Balogun also acknowledged the need for public pressure to prompt action, thanking the motion’s sponsor for shedding light on the issue.
He noted that many lawmakers were unaware of the extent of the problem, even in urban areas such as Lagos.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, explained that over time, many INEC offices built in less developed areas had become surrounded by urbanization, creating security concerns.
He pointed to the example of the Abeokuta South office, which was relocated after security threats, including the risk of arson.
Yakubu further discussed the challenges of finding locations that balance accessibility and security.
He stressed that while offices must not be placed in densely built-up areas, they also cannot be too far from the public to ensure safety and smooth election operations.
He also mentioned that some offices, including the one in Abeokuta South, have already been moved to more secure locations.
