By Abubakar Abraham
Kogi State Government, formally inaugurated the new members of the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC), in a meeting marked by optimism and a strong call for integrity in electoral management.
The event held at the Secretary to the Government office Kogi State’s office in Lokoja, saw the presentation of appointment letters by the SGS, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, who underscored the state’s commitment to making KOSIEC a model for electoral commissions nationwide.
The newly sworn-in Commissioners are; Labaran Yahaya Oyigebe, (Ankpa/Omala/Olamaboro), Umar Makun Abdulmalik, (Lokoja/Koton-Karfe), Jamiu Abdulkareem,( Ajaokuta) and Achema Friday (Idah/Ofu/Ibaji/Igalamela-Odolu).
Others are; Segun Ogbonikan, (Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu) and Jimoh Ozigizigi Omeiza, (Adavi/Okehi) while Muhammed Usman ( Okene/Ogori-Magongo) will serve as Secretary.
In her address, Dr. Ayoade, highlighted the state’s recent achievements, including the establishment of functional universities and the passage of the Child Rights Act, as evidence of the government’s commitment to progress.
Dr Ayoade urged the new members to prioritise Kogi State’s interests, emphasising the need for dedication and selflessness in their roles.
Drawing from a personal anecdote, Dr. Ayoade shared her experience representing Kogi State at a function in Lagos, where she highlighted the importance of education and the state’s values. “We must leave a lasting legacy,” she said, encouraging the new members to work in a way that earns them positive recognition in their communities and workplaces. “Your service to Kogi State should reflect integrity and a commitment to the people.”
The highlight of the ceremony was the official inauguration of the new KOSIEC members. Dr. Ayoade administered the oath of office, charging the appointees to serve with transparency, fairness, and accountability.
She congratulated them on their appointments and reiterated the importance of putting Kogi State first, followed by their faith in God. “Your work will shape the future of democracy at the grassroots level,” she noted, emphasizing the critical role of local government elections in delivering good governance.
Speaking on behalf of the new members, Hon Mamman Nda Eri expressed gratitude to the Kogi State Government, particularly Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for the opportunity to serve.
He pledged that the new commission would uphold the principles of integrity, transparency, and fairness in conducting elections. “We are committed to strengthening the electoral process and ensuring that every vote counts,” he said, assuring stakeholders of free, fair, and credible elections under their watch.
Hon. Mamman Nda Eri, who also serves as the National Chairman of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria, delivered remarks outlining KOSIEC’s vision for the future. He highlighted the newly enacted Kogi State Electoral Law 2025, which repealed the 2004 law and aligns with the federal Electoral Act 2022.
The new law introduces significant reforms, including a 360-day minimum notice period for local government elections to ensure adequate preparation and stakeholder engagement.
Eri also revealed KOSIEC’s collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to explore electronic voting and the potential use of INEC’s voting equipment. “This partnership will enhance transparency and efficiency in our electoral processes,” he said. Additionally, the 2025 law provides for monthly allocations to KOSIEC, ensuring financial
independence and the resources needed to conduct credible elections.
The Chairman emphasised the importance of early preparation, noting that the new provisions would enable KOSIEC to plan effectively and deliver elections that reflect the will of the people. “Local government is the closest tier of governance to the people, and the quality of leadership at this level directly impacts service delivery and community development,” Eri stated.
He expressed confidence in the new members’ ability to excel and called for collective efforts among state electoral commissions to promote best practices nationwide.
The inauguration of the new KOSIEC commissioners marks a significant step in Kogi State’s journey toward electoral excellence. With a clear mandate to uphold integrity and transparency, the commission is poised to deliver free, fair, and credible elections, ensuring that the voices of Kogi’s citizens are heard and respected.
