It was a gathering of the who is who as the 13th Forum of State Independent Electoral Commission (FOSIECON) National Delegates Conference officially commenced in Jos, the Plateau State capital in Wednesday, May 21, at the prestigious Crispan Hotel and Suites.
The National Delegates Conference brought together electoral stakeholders from across Nigeria to deliberate on strengthening grassroots democracy and electoral reforms.
Chief Barrister Jossy Chibundu, Chairman of FOSIECON, while delivering the opening remarks, welcomed participants and highlighted the constitutional role of State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) in conducting local government elections across Nigeria’s 36 states.
He addressed the challenges facing SIECs, including lack of financial autonomy, political interference, administrative constraints, and public misunderstanding.
He however noted that despite these hindrances, many SIECs have commendably fulfilled their mandates.
The Chairman emphasized the significance of the conference as a platform for dialogue and reform, especially in light of ongoing legislative attempts to weaken or abolish SIECs.
He expressed gratitude to states like Plateau for supporting local elections and urged other governors to strengthen their SIECs.
He emphasized that the event aims to foster collaboration and share insights to enhance grassroots democracy.
Eze concluded with appreciation to all participants for their commitment to credible local governance.
In his opening remarks, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, welcomed participants warmly, highlighting the state’s hospitality, security, and scenic environment.
He encouraged visitors to explore and share positive experiences about Plateau while countering negative perceptions about the state.
Gov. Mutfwang reflected on past events successfully hosted in Jos, like the Nigerian Bar Association conference, to emphasize the state’s readiness for business and tourism.
Commending fellow governors and state institutions for developmental strides, he stressed the importance of collaboration for regional growth.
On elections, the governor acknowledged systemic issues but emphasized that leadership is central to national development.
Referencing the book ‘Why Nations Fail’, he asserted that the failure of nations stems from leaders lacking conscience.
Mutfwang urged a shift in focus toward credible leadership recruitment, arguing that lasting institutional reform and national progress are only possible when visionary, people-centered leaders are chosen.
He further stressed the need for honesty, sincerity, and a renewed commitment to responsible governance.
In his opening remarks, His Royal Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman, Plateau Council of Chiefs and Emirs, who was represented by the Ngolong Ngas, Nde Jika Golit, warmly welcomed all participants to the conference.
Buba emphasized the importance of the gathering and urged delegates to pay close attention to the discussions, and encouraged them to deliberate sincerely on issues that promote grassroots democracy, strengthen local governance, and uphold justice.
He stressed the value of peace over violence in resolving differences. Concluding his remarks, the monarch wished everyone fruitful deliberations and a safe journey back to their respective destinations.
Goodwill messages were delivered by prominent figures including Prof. Chris Kwaja, the Country Director of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), and representatives from international development partner DAI.
Hon. Chris Hassan, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) Plateau State, also called for professionalism and neutrality within electoral commissions to build public trust and enhance the credibility of grassroots elections.
Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule who also addressed the audience, praised Plateau’s developmental strides and commitment to security, acknowledging the challenges faced by SIECs such as mistrust and political interference.
He stressed the importance of engaging local communities directly to build confidence and foster credible elections.
Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), expressed gratitude to the host state and participating commissioners, highlighting the value of self-assessment and mutual learning.
He thanked Plateau and Nasarawa governors for their steadfast support and praised the peaceful environment and hospitality provided for delegates.
Cishak invited all to enjoy the cultural offerings of Plateau and become ambassadors for the state’s heritage.
The conference provides a critical platform for addressing the challenges faced by State Independent Electoral Commissions, aiming to enhance their independence, transparency, and effectiveness in delivering credible elections at the grassroots level.
As the event continues, delegates will engage in further discussions and collaborative efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and promote sustainable electoral reforms.
