The Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission (BASIEC) has assured residents of the state of its preparedness to conduct free, fair, credible and peaceful local government election scheduled for August 17, 2026.
Chairman of the commission, Hajiya Jummai Salamatu Abubakar, gave the assurance yesterday during a news briefing on the level of preparations for the polls, reaffirming BASIEC’s commitment to conducting the elections in line with its constitutional mandate.
She said the commission had fulfilled all legal requirements for the election, including the issuance of the mandatory 360-day notice in August 2025 and the statutory 60-day notice in June 2026, alongside the publication of the election timetable and schedule of activities.
According to her, election will be conducted for chairmanship positions in 19 of the state’s 20 local government areas and for councillorship seats in all 20 local government areas.
Abubakar explained that no chairmanship election would be held in Shira local government area, as the position had already been filled through an earlier by-election.
She disclosed that, as part of efforts to strengthen the Commission’s preparedness, BASIEC undertook a study tour to the Jigawa State Independent Electoral Commission and observed local government elections recently in Gombe and Adamawa states to learn best electoral practices.
The BASIEC chairman further said the commission had engaged political parties, security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations and the media in a series of consultations aimed at ensuring an inclusive, transparent and hitch-free electoral process.
On logistics and security, she said adequate arrangements had been concluded in collaboration with relevant security agencies for the procurement and deployment of election materials, transportation and personnel to all polling units across the state.
She added that the training of election personnel, voter education and public enlightenment campaigns were at advanced stages, expressing confidence that all outstanding preparations would be completed before the election.
Abubakar reassured the electorate that BASIEC would remain independent, impartial and committed to delivering election that truly reflects the will of the people.
She appealed to political parties, candidates and voters to remain peaceful, comply with electoral guidelines and cooperate with the commission and security agencies throughout the electoral process.
Abubakar also expressed appreciation to Governor Bala Mohammed and other stakeholders for their support and cooperation towards ensuring the successful conduct of the forthcoming local government election.
