The Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) has officially commenced preparations for its 2025 National Delegates Conference with an inaugural planning committee meeting held at the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) Headquarters in Jos.
Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, Chairman of PLASIEC, who hosted the meeting, welcomed high-profile delegates from across the country. He expressed appreciation for their presence in Plateau State, widely regarded as the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” despite occasional security concerns. He highlighted the significance of the forum being held during a period of national constitutional reform, noting that it offers a unique opportunity to strengthen democratic institutions at the grassroots level. According to him, the upcoming conference will help assess electoral successes and challenges while providing recommendations for better election management.
The planning committee includes representatives from Nasarawa, Kaduna, Benue, Bauchi, Ondo, and Adamawa State. Their presence underscores the commitment of FOSIECON to organizing a successful and inclusive conference. He expressed confidence that the conference will have far-reaching impacts on Nigeria’s democracy.
Barrister Ayuba Wendy Osman, Vice Chairman of the Planning Committee and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Independent Electoral Commission (NASIEC), also addressed the media. He disclosed that the proposed date for the conference is between May 20th to 24th, 2025, though this remains tentative as planning continues. He emphasized that the annual conference is a critical platform for SIEC chairmen, commissioners, and secretaries from all 36 states to reflect on their roles, share ideas, and explore new strategies for electoral reform.
Addressing recent calls to scrap SIECs in favor of INEC, Osman reaffirmed the constitutional role of state electoral bodies, arguing that federalism requires a devolution of powers. “You cannot make the center too strong,” he said. “SIECs must continue to carry out their mandate unless the law says otherwise.”
The 2025 FOSIECON conference will center on the theme of strengthening State Electoral Commissions, aiming to enhance electoral integrity and democratic governance at the grassroots level.
