Forum Calls For Direct Funding To LGAs To Boost Development

The Electoral Reforms Forum has advocated for the implementation of transparent funding mechanisms to local government areas (LGAs) as a means to enhance local governance and spur development across Nigeria.

During the forum’s 12th virtual technical session, chairman Professor Adebayo Olukoshi emphasised the need for reforms to ensure accountability and improved governance at the grassroots level.

Olukoshi further recommended adopting a mixed electoral system to promote more inclusive politics and greater representation at all levels of governance.

He advocated for legislative reforms to bolster the independence and capacity of State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) and establish a formal collaborative framework between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and SIECs to enhance the quality of local elections.

Olukoshi outlined several key recommendations, including judicial reforms that prioritise merit-based appointments and set clear timelines for resolving electoral disputes.

He also emphasised the need for investment in advanced technologies for voter registration, voting, and result transmission to ensure transparency and minimize electoral fraud.

Additionally, the chairman urged the enforcement of internal democracy within political parties, the implementation of stringent campaign finance regulations, and the introduction of measures to increase the political participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

“To build a stronger democratic culture,” the forum suggested integrating civic education into school curricula and launching nationwide campaigns to encourage democratic participation.”