LASIEC assures parties of free, fair council poll

Phillips stated this on Friday at the commission’s office in the Yaba area of the state. The chairman said the allegations of manipulation against the commission were unfounded, adding that LASIEC under her watch would follow the rule of law. Phillips said, “We will also make efforts that will ensure mass participation in the July 22, 2017 LG election. The commission is irrevocably committed to the entrenchment of democratic norms and ideals in the electoral process at the local government level. “We will do everything possible to ensure that the election was conducted peacefully. LASIEC has received the assurance from the police, the army, the navy, the Department of State Services and other security agencies of the maintenance of security before, during and after the election.” She warned that any resident who cause a breach of the peace would be sanctioned in accordance with the provisions of the law. Phillips urged the media to assist the commission in mobilising the electorate and stabilising the electoral process. Meanwhile, the commission has commenced the validation of the candidates seeking election into the chairmanship and councillorship seats in the 57 local government and local council development areas. A statement from LASIEC on Sunday said the exercise which started last Wednesday would this week.]]>