The Lagos house of assembly has summoned officials of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) over preparations for the forthcoming local government elections.
The house issued the summons during Thursday’s plenary session following a motion raised as a matter of urgent public importance by Oladipo Ajomale, a member of the assembly.
Ajomale is the chairman of the house committee on judiciary, human rights, public petitions, and LASIEC.
Ajomale had criticised the recently released election guidelines by LASIEC, describing them as vague and lacking essential information.
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The lawmaker urged the assembly to invite LASIEC officials to provide adequate clarification for the guidelines of the LGA elections.
“The public and this house need detailed insights to ensure transparency and credibility in the forthcoming polls,” he said.
Supporting the motion, Adedamola Kasunmu, the deputy majority leader of the house, emphasised the need for transparency for the conduct of the LGA elections.
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Kasunmu said the state parliament must be adequately briefed on LASIEC’s plans to foster transparency for the election.
Bonu Solomon, another lawmaker, raised concerns over the lack of adequate public enlightenment in the commission’s guidelines, noting that it could put a blight on the election processes.
Some lawmakers raised questions about security arrangements, voter education, and the recruitment of ad hoc staff.
Mudashiru Obasa, the speaker of the assembly, said there is a need for LASIEC to engage with the parliament in its preparations for the LGA elections.
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Obasa said the engagement would ensure free, fair, and credible elections in the state.
He directed the relevant house committee to invite LASIEC officials and submit a report promptly.
On April 11, LASIEC announced July 12 for LGA elections in the state. The local government election will cover 57 chairmanship and 376 councillor seats.
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