By Solomon OKPO | The Evangelist News Desk
The Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) has called for a comprehensive review and harmonisation of the state’s electoral legislation with the National Electoral Act, 2026, to strengthen the legal framework for credible, transparent and inclusive local government elections ahead of the 2027 council polls.
The Commission’s Secretary and Officer Covering Duties for the Board Chairman, Dr. Uduak Udoh, made the call during a public hearing organised by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Inter-Governmental, Political and Special Matters on Monday, October 26, 2026. He urged lawmakers to address gaps in the existing AKISIEC Law, 2024, to improve electoral administration and safeguard the Commission’s independence.
Udoh identified the tenure of commissioners and the Commission’s secretary, timely release of election funds, election schedules, political party primaries, submission of candidates’ lists and the conduct of political campaigns as key areas requiring legislative attention. He proposed that election funds be released at least 12 months before the polls to enable the Commission to plan effectively and prepare adequately for the exercise.
He also emphasised the need for clear statutory timelines and administrative guidelines to reduce legal uncertainties, promote accountability and ensure that political parties, candidates and other stakeholders operate within a transparent and predictable electoral framework. He reaffirmed AKISIEC’s commitment to conducting credible elections across the state’s 31 local government areas, 369 wards and 4,353 electoral units.
Speaking at the hearing, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, stressed the importance of a sound legal framework for credible, orderly and transparent elections at the grassroots. He noted that local governments were the tier of government.
