Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has responded to public demands by initiating steps to conduct local government council elections. This development follows the progression of a bill to establish the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission, which has successfully passed its second reading in the State Assembly.
The executive bill, introduced by the Majority Leader Mr. Ikenna Ofodeme, aims to empower the state government to hold local elections. Ofodeme highlighted that the comprehensive bill, encompassing approximately 110 clauses, is designed to serve the interests of both the government and the general public.
Calls for local government elections have been persistent since Governor Soludo’s inaugural speech on March 17, 2022, where he committed to this democratic process.
During the bill’s debate, Mr. Patrick Okafor, representing Onitsha North 2, emphasized that the bill signifies the governor’s dedication to conducting fair elections and delivering grassroots democracy. Mr. Noble Igwe of Ogbaru constituency 1 remarked that extensive work has been done over the past six months to ensure the Commission’s capability to oversee credible elections.
Lawmakers Nkechi Ogbuefi (Anaocha Constituency 1) and Emmanuel Nwafor (Orumba South Constituency) affirmed that the governor is honoring his promise to hold elections within two years of taking office. They believe the bill empowers local governance.
Representatives Augustine Ike (Nnewi North) and Patrick Udeoba (Anambra West) noted that the bill, which incorporates aspects of the 2022 Electoral Act, could serve as a model for local government elections across Nigeria.
Anambra East’s Obi Nweke and Aguata Constituency 1’s Anayo Okpalaeke praised the bill’s timing, seeing it as a commitment to advancing grassroots interests.
Speaker of the House, Mr. Somtochukwu Udeze, who presided over the session, expressed full legislative support for the executive’s agenda and urged members to thoroughly review the bill before its final reading and passage.
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