As Plateau State prepares to host the 13th National Delegates Conference of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON), the Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to credible and inclusive electoral processes.
Speaking at a press briefing held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Jos, Hon. Cishak described the forthcoming FOSIECON conference as a national event of strategic importance, especially for the future of local government elections in Nigeria.
“We are proud to announce that Plateau State will host the 13th National Delegates Conference of FOSIECON from the 21st to the 23rd of May 2025. Jos, the Home of Peace and Tourism, is ready to welcome the nation.”
The theme of the conference, “Local Government Elections in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities,” reflects the forum’s objective to critically examine the structures guiding grassroots elections and propose actionable reforms.
“No fewer than 304 delegates from across the 36 states and the FCT are expected to participate, including Chairmen, Commissioners, and Secretaries of various SIECs,” the PLASIEC boss noted. “We are also expecting distinguished personalities, including traditional leaders, lawmakers, and governors.”
Hon. Cishak highlighted the Commission’s internal strides toward institutional reform, including staff training, infrastructure upgrade, and adherence to transparency and accountability.
“We at PLASIEC have taken deliberate steps to enhance our readiness and integrity. These include expanding our infrastructure and equipping our staff through targeted capacity-building programmes.”
While addressing the media, he emphasized the critical role journalists continue to play in strengthening democracy, especially during the October 2024 local government elections in Plateau State.
“You helped citizens understand the process, engaged the public with facts, and stood as a bridge between the electorate and the electoral umpire. That engagement was strategic and significantly contributed to the credibility of the entire process.”
On the status and future of State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), Cishak made a strong case for reform rather than dissolution.
“Scrapping SIECs would be unconstitutional and disastrous. What we need is to strengthen them through reforms, not dismantle them. They are vital for deepening grassroots democracy.”
He concluded by assuring Nigerians and delegates of Plateau State’s preparedness to host a historic and impactful conference.
“With your support, we are confident this conference will be a turning point in our collective quest to deepen democracy from the grassroots.”
The conference, expected to generate discussions that could shape the future of local governance in Nigeria, also enjoys support from development partners like DAI International Development, alongside other electoral stakeholders.
