The National Assembly (NASS) has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborative efforts towards enhancing Nigeria’s electoral framework and strengthening democratic principles and institutions.
Senator Sharafadeen Alli stated the affirmation in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas, on Friday.
Senator Alli stated this in his opening remarks at the NASS Joint Committee meeting with the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker representing Oyo South Senatorial District is the Chairman, NASS Joint-Committee on Electoral Matters.
The meeting with the INEC leadership followed the successful South-South Zonal Legislative Interactive Session (ZLIS) held in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State.
Alli said there was a need to build on the foundations laid by the Renewed Hope Agenda. He said NASS supports initiatives that promote national development, including a good electoral framework.
The lawmaker emphasised the collaborative efforts required to enhance Nigeria’s electoral framework and strengthen democratic principles.
Alli reaffirmed the commitment of NASS to supporting people-friendly and development-focused government policies.
He commended the collaborative efforts of other senators and members of the House of Representatives. He lauded them for their dedication to effective work plan implementation.
Senator Alli said the committee’s interactive sessions held across the geo-political zones were aimed at gathering valuable inputs from Nigerians.
Alli said the inputs gathered would form the recommendations of the technical working committee in the ongoing reform of the Electoral Act, 2022.
He assured attendees that NASS, in partnership with non-governmental organisations and civil societies, has adopted an inclusive and consultative approach to ensure broad-based support and engagement.
According to Senator Alli, the method was designed to create a more robust, fair and inclusive electoral system.
The lawmaker said that INEC had been requested to present critical issues affecting the nation’s electoral process.
“These include preparations for the upcoming off-cycle elections in Edo and Ondo, funding and budget allocations and the implications of the Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy,” he added.
Senator Alli emphasised the importance of proactive engagement with INEC to effectively address the identified challenges.
