The Jigawa State Independent Electoral Commission (JISIEC) has scheduled October 5 for the local government elections across the 27 LGAs of the state.
This decision comes after the election was earlier postponement to June 2025. This was prompted by amendments to the Jigawa State Electoral Law of 2012 to align with the Electoral Act of 2022, which extends the notice period for political parties from 90 to 360 days.
In a meeting held at the commission’s headquarters in Dutse, JISIEC chairperson Auwalu Harbo announced the new election date, citing compliance with a recent Supreme Court judgement mandating state governments to conduct local government elections.
“In compliance with the Supreme Court judgement, the JISIEC being a law-abiding authority deemed it necessary to revert to its earlier decision on Local Government Elections and unanimously requested for re-amendment and fixed Saturday, 5th October, 2024 as the new date for the conduct of the local government elections in Jigawa State,” Harbo stated.
This decision signals the commencement of preparations for registered political parties intending to participate in the elections.
Jigawa State last held local government elections in June 2021, and the tenure of the elected chairpersons ended on June 28, 2024.
Subsequently, the state government dissolved the council chairpersons and appointed Directors of Administration and General Services (DAGs) to manage the local governments.
The JISIEC has also released an election itinerary noting that political parties can begin their campaigns on August 3, while nomination forms will be available for sale from 24 August to 2 September.
Representatives from various political parties endorsed the JISIEC’s decision during the event. Lawan Garba, Special Adviser to the Governor of Jigawa State on political affairs, and Bala Idi, the governor’s adviser on inter-party affairs, attended the event.
This development sets the stage for an engaging political season as parties prepare for the upcoming local government elections in Jigawa State.
