Ahead of LG Polls, KOSIEC Seeks Unified Action on 2026 Electoral Law Implementation

April 10, 2026.

The Chairman of the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) Hon. Mamman Nda Eri, has called for strong collaboration among electoral stakeholders to ensure credible elections as Nigeria begins implementing reforms under the New Electoral Act 2026.

Speaking at a high-level retreat on Wednesday, the Chairman described the gathering as a “strategic convergence” aimed at strengthening transparency, integrity, and public confidence in Kogi State’s electoral process.

Addressing critical stakeholders, Eri noted that the retreat comes at a critical period in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. According to him, while the new electoral law offers opportunities for reform, it also places significant responsibilities on all actors involved in election management.

“The success of any electoral system rests not only on the robustness of the legal framework but also on the sincerity, professionalism, and collaboration of stakeholders,” he said.

The retreat, themed “A Panacea for Credible Electoral System,” is designed to clarify key provisions of the new law, address implementation challenges, and strengthen cooperation among political parties, regulators, and election managers.

The Chairman urged participants to actively engage, share insights, and approach deliberations with openness and commitment to democratic values.

In his remarks, the Secretary of the Commission, Hon. Muhammad Usman, said the retreat was organised to acquaint stakeholders with the new electoral laws and guide their actions accordingly. He also commended the Managing Consultant, Hon. Bamidele Suru, for simplifying the Commission’s work.

Also speaking, the IPAC Chairman, Mr. Iliyas Badanga represented at the event, praised KOSIEC for organising the retreat and assured the Commission of the cooperation of political parties toward the success of forthcoming local government elections in the state.

Similarly, the Executive Director of Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR), Mr. Idris Miliki, described the retreat as an innovative step in Nigeria’s electoral process. He urged political parties to familiarise themselves with the provisions of the new law in their dealings with KOSIEC.

The retreat is expected to produce actionable strategies to enhance trust, accountability, and efficiency in Kogi State’s electoral system ahead of future polls.

Other dignitaries in attendance included KOSIEC Commissioners: Hon. Chief Labaran Oyigebe, Hon. Umar Abdulmalik, Hon. Jamiu Abdul Kareem, Hon. Friday Achema, Hon. Segun Ogbonikan, and Hon. Jimoh Omeiza.

Modupe Adegboro,
Information Officer.