The Anambra State House of Assembly has made additional amendments to the state’s electoral law, just over two weeks before the local government elections set for September 28, 2024.
The latest change, labeled the *Anambra State Electoral (Amendment No. 3) Law, 2024*, introduces a key modification to Section 110 of the principal law. The new subsection 4 provides clarity by stipulating that local government councils will be dissolved after a two-year term, starting from their inauguration date. Other revisions were made to correct typographical errors in the original law.
During the legislative session, the amendments were fast-tracked, passing through the first, second, and third readings on the same day in accordance with the House’s Standing Order 74. This was made possible by a two-thirds majority approval from the assembly members present.
Barrister Obi Nweke, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Petitions and representative of Anambra East Constituency, introduced the motion for the amendment. He explained that the changes were crucial to avoid gaps in local government administration and prevent ambiguity surrounding council tenure, thereby reducing the potential for legal disputes.
Speaker of the House, Right Honourable Somtochukwu Udeze, presided over the session, and the bill was adopted by a voice vote. The new law takes effect immediately, ensuring clearer governance terms for local government chairmen, deputies, and councillors across the state.
