By Garba Adamu Gwangwangwan
The Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission (BASIEC) has announced that local council elections will be held on Saturday, August 10, 2024. This decision comes one year after the dissolution of the last elected councils by State Governor Sen Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir.
The BASIEC Chairman, Ahmed Makama, disclosed this during a briefing with journalists on Friday. He stated, “In accordance with the relevant laws, BASIEC hereby gives 60 days’ notice for the conduct of the local government council elections in Bauchi state.”
Makama explained the choice of date, noting that 60 days from the announcement falls on August 6, which is not a Saturday. “Elections are usually conducted on Saturdays. We have therefore moved the election to Saturday, August 10, 2024,” he added.
The BASIEC Chairman urged political parties and stakeholders to commence preparations to ensure a smooth election process. He assured that the Commission is committed to delivering free, fair, and acceptable elections, aiming to make Bauchi State a leader in the conduct of local government council elections in the country.
Makama emphasized that the Commission will use the voters’ register maintained by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stating, “BASIEC does not keep its own register of voters.”
He also announced that the sale of nomination forms has commenced and encouraged interested individuals to purchase them. However, he reminded politicians that open campaigns are not permitted until 30 days before the election date, as stipulated by law.
