As a Nigerian, it is important for you to have a proper idea of the functions of various government bodies in the country. If you do, this will enable you to have a better understanding of how they operate and be able to ascertain if the body has gine against the standard. In this article, we shall be looking at the functions of INEC in Nigeria.
The Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) was set up in 1998. It is the electoral body in Nigeria that was set up to oversee elections in the country. Now, let me show you the major function of INEC in the country.
Must read: Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Salary Structure and Staff Welfare Packages
Functions of INEC in Nigeria
The functions of the Commission as stipulated in Part I of the Third Schedule to the 1999 Constitution are as listed below:
- Organize, undertake and oversee all elections to the offices of the President and Vice-president, the state Governor and Deputy Governor, Senate membership, the House of Representatives and the House of Assembly of each State of the Federation.
- Registration of political parties in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution and an act of the National Assembly.
- Supervise the organization and activities of the political parties, including their finances.
- Organization of the annual examination, auditing, and accounting of the funds and accounts of political parties, and also the publication of reports on such examination and audit for the general public.
- Registration of persons eligible to vote as well as prepare, maintain and revise the register of voters for the purpose of any election under this Constitution.
- Monitor political campaigns and ensure adherence to rules and regulations as provided by the constitution.
- Ensure that all Electoral Commissioners, Electoral, and Returning officers take and subscribe to the oath of office prescribed by law.
- Public education on all matters related to voting processes and procedures
- Delegation of powers and roles to any Resident Electoral Commissioners.
Mission Statement of INEC
INEC as an electoral body seeks to serve as an independent body committed to the conduct of free, fair and credible elections for the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria.
VALUES
The functions of the electoral body anchors on integrity and morals, therefore the body is guided by a set of values in carrying out its functions.
- Autonomy: INEC shall be free of all external control and influence be it from within or outside the government and its functions shall be carried out as such.
- Transparency: There must be an open display of transparency in all of the body’s activities and dealings with stakeholders.
- Integrity: There shall be the maintenance of truthfulness and honesty by INEC officials in all of its dealings and at all times
- Impartiality: INEC must not be found to be taking sides or make decisions in favour of a candidate, group or party.
- INEC shall ensure the creation of equal opportunities and a level playing field for all political candidates.
- Dedication: INEC shall be committed to providing electoral services that meet the standards of the law and guided by the best international practices.
- Equity: INEC shall ensure fairness and justice in dealing with all stakeholders.
- Excellence: INEC shall be professional in all of its dealings
- Teamwork: INEC shall create a conducive environment that promotes teamwork among its staff at all levels.
- Carry out other functions as may be conferred upon it by an Act of the National Assembly.
Conclusion
These are the functions of INEC in Nigeria and also their core values. So, now you have known the main functions of the electoral body in Nigeria, you should not get it twisted with wring information you might have gotten from an unproven or false source. Subscribe to Nigerian Fact mailing list to get more facts about Nigeria delivered straight into your email.
