The Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) has indefinitely postponed the local government council election scheduled for November 7, 2026. Chairman of the commission, Chief Charles Ejiogu, announced the postponement during a stakeholders' meeting in Owerri. Ejiogu cited the need for further consultations as the reason for the postponement. A new date, timetable, and guidelines will be announced within the shortest possible time.
The election was initially scheduled for September 26, 2026, but was later shifted due to concerns over pending litigations. The state government had stated that the exercise could not proceed at the time. Ejiogu assured political parties and stakeholders that the commission would not abandon its constitutional responsibility of conducting local government elections. The commission remains committed to conducting a peaceful, transparent, and credible election.
Ejiogu explained that the commission had consulted widely before deciding to postpone the election. The stakeholders' meeting provided an opportunity for participants to express their views and make informed suggestions. The commission will work towards fixing another date for the election. Ejiogu assured residents and political stakeholders that the electoral body would announce a new date, timetable, and guidelines soon.
The ISIEC chairman also assured political parties and their aspirants that the commission would provide a level playing field for all candidates contesting the chairmanship and councillorship positions. He urged political parties to embrace tolerance and ensure that their activities did not undermine the peaceful conduct of the forthcoming elections.
The commission is working with security agencies to establish an Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES). The proposed committee will comprise various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, and Department of State Services. This arrangement aims to ensure adequate security before, during, and after the local government elections.
ISIEC has called on the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) to sign and uphold a peace accord to promote peaceful political activities and prevent violence during the election. Ejiogu warned that no individual or group would be allowed to subvert the will of the electorate in the forthcoming council polls. The stakeholders' meeting aimed to listen to concerns and secure the understanding and cooperation of political parties and other participants.
The postponement of the local government election has significant implications for the people of Imo State. The election is crucial for the selection of local government chairmen and councillors. The commission's commitment to conducting a peaceful, transparent, and credible election is essential for the democratic process in the state. The new date for the election will be announced soon.
Key points
- The Imo State Independent Electoral Commission has postponed the local government council election scheduled for November 7, 2026, indefinitely.
- The commission cited the need for further consultations as the reason for the postponement.
- A new date, timetable, and guidelines for the election will be announced within the shortest possible time.
