Describing the situation as a serious threat to democracy, the Senate emphasized the near-total absence of genuine democratic processes at the local government level and called for urgent action to reform the third tier of government.
These concerns were raised following a motion by Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, representing Benue South, co-sponsored by several other lawmakers. Senator Moro pointed out that in Benue State, and in many other regions, voters were left stranded on election day as officials and voting materials failed to arrive at numerous polling stations.
The debate also saw contributions from other Senators, including Senator Titus Zam (APC, Benue North West), Senator Emmanuel Udende (APC, Benue North East), Senator Ahmad Lawan (APC, Yobe North), and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin. The consensus among lawmakers was that the issue of rigged elections is widespread and affects all states and political parties.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for immediate corrective measures, including a national dialogue to address the persistent problem of sham local government elections. The Senate resolved to engage stakeholders, particularly state governors, and seek consultations with President Bola Tinubu on the way forward.
Ultimately, the Senate committed to launching an open national dialogue to restore credibility to local government elections, aiming to involve all relevant parties in discussions to reform the electoral process at this level.
ND connect had reported various local government elections, including that of Rivers where tensions were heightened following the destruction of secretariats in Ikwerre, Emohua, and Eleme LGAs, but the governor assured the public that a full investigation, in collaboration with the Nigerian Police Force and the Directorate of State Services (DSS), is underway to unmask the culprits.
The governor had previously warned of potential unrest during the swearing-in of newly elected local government chairmen on October 6, 2024, after receiving intelligence reports of planned disruptions. Despite these warnings, chaos ensued, with political thugs reportedly torching government buildings.
"I knew they were unhappy and would go the extra mile to create disaffection. But let me be clear—this will not go unpunished," Fubara said, expressing his frustration over the reckless actions of the thugs.
