Yobe electoral commission begins screening candidates for September 26 council elections

The Yobe State Independent Electoral Commission (YSIEC) has begun the candidate screening process for the upcoming September 26 local government elections in the state's 17 local government areas. This screening, scheduled to take place from September 1 to 7, encompasses candidates running for the positions of chairmanship, vice-chairmanship, and councillorship.

Dr Ibrahim Yabani, the chairman of the YSIEC, announced this during a press conference held in Damaturu, emphasizing that the procedure adheres to the law and the commission's guidelines.

Initially, the electoral commission had scheduled the elections for June 6. However, due to an amendment in the electoral law by the Yobe State House of Assembly, the date was rescheduled to September 26. This change aimed to prevent a conflict with political party primaries for the 2027 general elections, which could have created undue pressure on politicians, journalists, and other stakeholders.

Yabani clarified that the election's rescheduling was entirely compliant with the law, as it did not breach any regulations. The commission ensured the date change was seamless by moving it to the 26th of September. He further explained that the screening process is ongoing concurrently across the state's three senatorial zones.

Councillorship candidates are undergoing the screening process at zonal centers located in Damaturu, Potiskum, and Nguru, while the chairmanship and vice-chairmanship candidates are being evaluated at the commission's headquarters in Damaturu.

The commission has established separate teams, comprising permanent members and technocrats, to conduct a thorough and transparent screening process. YSIEC reiterated its dedication to ensuring credible, free, and fair local government elections in the state.