As the October 5, 2024, Local Governments Elections in Jigawa State draws near, the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) has taken a significant step to ensure the conduct of a free and fair election. The Commission has inaugurated a 13-man Elections Malpractices Tribunal, aimed at providing an impartial platform for addressing complaints and safeguarding the interests of voters.

According to a statement released by the SIEC’s Public Relations Officer, Mallam Habibu Yusuf, the Tribunal is designed to receive complaints from individuals who feel their rights have been compromised or who believe the election process is rigged. The statement emphasized the Tribunal’s impartiality and the judges’ proven integrity, noting that they have been administered an oath by the State Chief Judge, Justice Umar Mai Gari, under the leadership of Justice Musa Ubale.

The inauguration ceremony, held on Monday, was attended by the state’s Attorney General, Bello Abdulkadir Fanini, the Chairman of the SIEC, Auwalu Harbo, and all the Commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The establishment of the Elections Malpractices Tribunal underscores the SIEC’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and credible election process in Jigawa State. The Commission has taken these measures to allay fears and suspicions, providing an avenue for addressing grievances and promoting confidence in the electoral process.

With the election just around the corner, the people of Jigawa State are eagerly waiting to exercise their democratic rights. The inauguration of the Elections Malpractices Tribunal is a welcome development, as it offers a critical mechanism for resolving disputes and ensuring a free and fair election.