“Governors Have Taken Over LG Finances” Imo Leaders Call For Federal Action

“Governors Have Taken Over LG Finances” Imo Leaders Call For Federal Action

Owerri—Stakeholders in Imo State have urged the Federal Government to establish a separate electoral body to oversee local government elections, citing concerns that governors have monopolized local government funds.

This call was made during a town hall meeting in Owerri, organized by SOS Children’s Villages with support from the European Union….CONTINUE READING 

Participants expressed frustration over the lack of fairness in local elections, with Eze George Nwosu, traditional ruler of Umuekwure in Ngor Okpala, lamenting the weakness of electoral institutions. He stressed the need for reforms, stating, “We must strengthen our institutions, like electoral bodies, to prevent manipulation and ensure accountability.”

The Chief Imam of Imo State, Sheikh Suleiman Yusuf Njoku, also criticized the state of the country’s electoral process, calling it “unfortunate” and urging Nigerians to prioritize integrity over materialism. He noted that the pursuit of wealth had contributed to Nigeria’s political problems.

Ichie Levi Ekeh, Imo State Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), emphasized the need for change, particularly in prosecuting electoral offenders and adhering to election guidelines. He advocated for a new federal body to conduct local elections, noting that state electoral commissions often favor one party, creating an uneven playing field.

Chimezie Ebosie, a member of a Civil Society Organization, called for the formation of a coalition to push for these reforms.