Anambra commission insists on August 29 election despite law suit

The Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) has declared its intention to proceed with the local government elections on August 29, despite a legal dispute filed by 56 current councillors. Genevieve Osakwe, the ANSIEC chairman, made this announcement in Awka, stating that preparations for the election were ongoing.

The conflict arises from a lawsuit filed by the councillors before the Anambra State High Court, challenging the validity of the state government's decision to limit local government officials' tenure to two years. The plaintiffs, including the state Attorney General and the Anambra State House of Assembly, argue that Section 110(A) of the Anambra State Electoral (Amendment No. 3) Law, 2024, conflicts with Section 7(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which ensures a democratically elected local government system.

They maintain that their tenure has not ended and that they should continue serving for four years. However, Osakwe asserted that the court case has not impacted the commission's preparations, as they are still working towards a smooth electoral process. Despite the legal challenge, ANSIEC emphasized its commitment to delivering a credible election and urged political parties and candidates to continue their preparations.