2027: Pro-democracy activists mobilize against appointment of INEC Chair by Tinubu

Pro-democracy activists have sent a memorandum to the two Chambers of the National Assembly, demanding the stoppage of the incumbent President from appointing the chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and National Commissioners.

At the presentation of policy brief and memoranda by the Women Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA) in partnership with African Center for Leadership, Strategy and Development (CENTRE LSD) held in Abuja on Thursday, they contended that the appointment process for INEC leadership remains questionable since it creates a conflict of interest for the President.

Making their demands under the presentation titled; Memo on appointment creteria for INEC Chairman and Commissioners, the forum suggested a composition of independent panel membership of eight institutions to screen and nominate three persons for the selection and approval of one person by the President and National Assembly.

Dr. Austin Aigbe while presenting the memorandum at the event
insisted that the President’s sole nomination of candidates as the electoral umpire leaves room for political influence in the appointment process, potentially undermining the independence of the Commission.

He stressed the urgent need to make the appointment process in INEC more transparent and less subject to political pressures in order to enhance the integrity and impartiality of INEC.

In a memorandum to the Joint Committees on INEC/Electoral Reform of the Senate and House of Representatives, they proposed the establishment of an independent body that will be responsible for selecting a set of candidates for INEC leadership to the President, who in turn nominates one from the set to enhance the credibility, transparency, and public trust in the electoral landscape.

The forum further recommended that a nominee from the National Judicial Council (NJC) should be the chairman of the screening Committee, the nominee from the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), preferably the President should be the co-Chairman.

Other members to complete the composition as members, according to their recommendations, include; the President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), National Union of Journalists (NUJ) President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) president while the Secretary of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) will serve as the Committee’s Secretary
After a thorough and careful review of the electoral reform proposal by the National Assembly, we humbly draw attention to the ongoing debate surrounding the appointment of the INEC leadership, which necessitates urgent electoral reform.

“As the country faces challenges related to political inequity, voter engagement, and the integrity of electoral processes, the manner in which leaders are appointed to oversee these mechanisms has become critically important.

“Concerns about transparency, neutrality, and potential political influence dominate discussions, with critics asserting that the appointment process is frequently marred by political manipulation, which undermines the commission’s independence and erodes public trust.

“As Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure draws to a close later this year after serving two terms in office, making him ineligible for reappointment, the ongoing discussions regarding his successor have sparked renewed calls for comprehensive electoral reforms.

“Central to these discussions is the need for reforms that strengthen the integrity of the electoral system through systemic changes. This includes addressing how the leadership of the INEC is appointed, ensuring that the selection process is transparent, merit-based, and free from political influence.

“The appointment process for INEC leadership remains questionable. This proposal advocates for the establishment of an independent body that will be responsible for selecting a set of candidates for INEC leadership to the President, who in turn nominates one from the set to enhance the credibility, transparency, and public trust in the electoral landscape,” the forum noted.

Enumerating the qualities, the electoral umpire boss must possess, the forum said: “INEC leadership criteria should be explicitly stated in the Third Schedule of the Constitution of Nigeria or relevant sections. Key qualifications should include a strong academic foundation. In addition to relevant experience in governance, law, or public service. And a proven leadership ability, demonstrated through past roles or positions.”

The activists also recommend electronic voting and single day voting to discourage the wastage associated with printing of ballot papers, running into billions of Naira.

In his welcome address, the Executive Director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy&Development (Centre LSD), Mr. Monday Osasah, said the policy briefs and memoranda presented were the result of extensive research and stakeholder engagement.

“They offer critical insights and recommendations on protecting civic space, enhancing electoral credibility, and improving the appointment process for INEC leadership. These documents are not merely reports; they represent a call to action for all stakeholders, including government, civil society, and the private sector. “