13th FOSIECON National Delegates Conference Kicks Off in Jos to Strengthen Grassroots Democracy

13th FOSIECON National Delegates Conference Kicks Off in Jos to Strengthen Grassroots Democracy

The 13th National Delegates Conference of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) officially opened today at Crispan Hotel, Jos, drawing electoral stakeholders from across the country for critical discussions on electoral reforms and strengthening local democracy.

In his welcome address, Chief (Barr.) Jossy Chibundu Eze, FOSIECON Chairman, underscored the constitutional mandate of State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) in conducting local government elections across Nigeria’s 36 states. He highlighted longstanding challenges such as political interference, inadequate financial and administrative autonomy, and widespread misconceptions about SIECs’ roles.

Despite these obstacles, many SIECs continue to perform their duties commendably. Chief Eze warned against growing legislative efforts to abolish or sideline SIECs and called for national support to empower them instead. He praised states like Plateau for their commitment to credible local elections and emphasized the conference as a timely opportunity for reforms, collaboration, and capacity-building.

Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, in his keynote address, welcomed delegates and spotlighted Plateau’s hospitality, security, and scenic appeal. He urged participants to explore the state and challenge negative narratives. Reflecting on successful events hosted in Jos, he reaffirmed Plateau’s readiness for investment, tourism, and development partnerships.

Speaking on governance, Governor Mutfwang referenced Why Nations Fail, emphasizing that failed leadership—not weak systems—is the root cause of national underdevelopment. He advocated for a leadership culture driven by conscience and integrity and called for electoral reforms that prioritize visionary, people-focused leaders.

Representing traditional institutions, His Royal Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau Council of Chiefs and Emirs, delivered a goodwill message through the Ngolong Ngas, Nde Jika Golit. He called on participants to approach the conference with sincerity and commitment to justice, peace, and grassroots progress.

Additional goodwill messages were delivered by development partners including Prof. Chris Kwaja of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) and representatives from DAI. They reiterated the importance of neutrality, professionalism, and institutional credibility in local election management. Hon. Chris Hassan, IPAC Chairman in Plateau State, echoed these sentiments and encouraged deeper stakeholder engagement to build public trust.

Also speaking, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State praised Plateau’s security and governance achievements. He acknowledged the tough environment SIECs operate in and emphasized the need for direct community engagement to strengthen confidence in electoral outcomes.

Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), appreciated the support of Plateau and Nasarawa States, highlighting the role of inter-state collaboration and mutual learning. He encouraged delegates to enjoy the cultural richness of Plateau State and serve as ambassadors of its heritage.

As deliberations continue, the conference stands as a pivotal forum for addressing institutional challenges, sharing best practices, and developing actionable strategies to enhance the transparency, independence, and performance of SIECs across Nigeria.

The outcomes of this gathering are expected to contribute significantly to the future of grassroots democracy and credible leadership recruitment at the local level.