In a significant development concerning local governance in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has affirmed that the current tenure of chairmen and councillors across the FCT’s six area councils will conclude in June 2026. This announcement follows recent inquiries and legal challenges regarding the duration of their mandate under updated electoral laws.

The Impact of Electoral Act 2022

Under the provisions of the recently amended Electoral Act 2022, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu clarified that elected officials of the FCT area councils now serve a four-year term. This extension aligns their tenure with the electoral cycles for national executive and legislative offices, superseding the previous three-year term stipulated by the now-repealed Electoral Act 2010.

Yakubu emphasized that the commencement of officials’ tenure dates from their oath-taking ceremonies rather than the election day itself. Also, this interpretation is supported by legal precedents and judicial interpretations, addressing concerns raised by political parties, legal firms, and other stakeholders regarding the effective start and end dates of elected officials’ mandates.

Legal and Judicial Backing

Yakubu highlighted several judicial authorities, including the Supreme Court, which have upheld the principle that tenure begins from the date of oath of office. In addition, this clarification aims to provide a clear understanding amid ongoing debates and challenges surrounding the electoral processes in the FCT.

Ensuring adherence to legal frameworks, Yakubu reassured stakeholders of INEC’s commitment to releasing an electoral timetable in due course. This action aims to maintain transparency and uphold the integrity of local government elections, particularly within the FCT, which serve as a critical benchmark for electoral practices across Nigeria.

The announcement follows earlier inquiries and legal challenges regarding the duration of office for FCT area council officials. The clarification underscores INEC’s role in ensuring electoral processes align with updated legislation and judicial rulings, fostering confidence in Nigeria’s democratic governance.

The tenure of chairmen and councillors in the FCT area councils is set to expire in June 2026, as clarified by INEC under the new Electoral Act 2022. However, this development marks a pivotal moment in local governance within the FCT, with implications for future electoral processes and democratic practices in Nigeria.

Source: Vanguard