Kano Youth Group Urges Gov. Yusuf to Appoint Lawan Badamasi as KANSIEC Chairman

By Ladan Muhammad

A youth advocacy group, Kano State Youth for Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria, has called on 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 Professor Sani Lawan Malumfashi as KANSIEC Chairman after his appointment as the Kano State Commissioner for Higher Education.

In a statement issued by its Chairman, Ibrahim Ismail, the organisation described Badamasi, who currently serves as the commission’s Commissioner for Media and Publicity, as a suitable candidate to take over the leadership of the electoral body.

It argued that his experience and familiarity with the commission’s operations would promote administrative continuity, ensure a smooth leadership transition and minimise disruptions to its activities.

According to the group, maintaining stability within KANSIEC is particularly important given its responsibility for organising, conducting and supervising local government elections across Kano State’s 44 local government areas.

The organisation stressed that the position of KANSIEC chairman requires a leader committed to transparency, impartiality, accountability and the protection of electoral integrity.

It further noted that appointing an individual with an existing understanding of the commission’s administrative structure and operations would help sustain institutional efficiency and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.

The group also urged Governor Yusuf to ensure that the appointment of a new chairman strictly complies with the relevant constitutional and statutory provisions governing the establishment and operations of the state electoral commission.

It emphasised that the independence of KANSIEC must be protected, noting that public confidence in democratic institutions depends largely on their ability to perform their responsibilities without undue interference.

Reaffirming its commitment to democratic development, Kano State Youth for Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria said it would continue to advocate youth participation, accountability, good governance and credible electoral processes in the state.

The organisation urged the state government to give its recommendation serious consideration, describing Badamasi’s possible appointment as an opportunity to strengthen institutional stability and advance grassroots democracy in Kano State.