A pro-democracy group, Kano State Youth for Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria, has urged Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to appoint Alhaji Lawan Badamasi as the substantive Chairman of the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC).
The group made the appeal following the resignation of the former KANSIEC Chairman, Professor Sani Lawan Malumfashi, who was recently appointed as the state’s Commissioner for Higher Education.
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Ibrahim Ismail, the organisation said Badamasi, who currently serves as KANSIEC Commissioner for Media and Publicity, should be considered for the position to ensure continuity in the leadership of the electoral body.
Ismail said Badamasi’s experience and familiarity with the commission’s operations would help guarantee administrative stability and a smooth transition.
He noted that maintaining leadership continuity was important for the commission to effectively discharge its statutory responsibilities, particularly organising, conducting and supervising local government elections across Kano State’s 44 local government areas.
The group also stressed that the position requires a leader committed to transparency, impartiality, accountability and the protection of electoral integrity.
It further urged Governor Yusuf to ensure that the appointment process complies with relevant constitutional and statutory provisions governing the establishment and operations of KANSIEC.
The organisation emphasised that the independence of the electoral commission must remain a priority, noting that public confidence in democratic institutions depends on their ability to operate without undue interference.
It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democratic values, youth participation, accountability, good governance and credible electoral processes in Kano State.
The group urged the state government to give its recommendation serious consideration in the interest of institutional stability and the development of grassroots democracy.
