…calls for review of recent INEC appointmentsThe Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a stern demand to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to publicly disclose the full process for appointing the next chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a statement on Sunday, SERAP warned that any secrecy surrounding the selection would violate the Nigerian Constitution, erode public trust, and threaten the integrity of future elections.
Current INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, is scheduled to complete his second five-year term in November 2025, leaving a vacancy that must be filled ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections.
The successor is to be nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.In a letter dated September 27, 2025, and signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP specifically asked the President to disclose the number and names of all candidates currently being considered for the position and clarify whether the Council of State has been or will be consulted, a requirement mandated by law.
SERAP stressed that the selection process “cannot and should not be a closed shop,” arguing that a transparent and accountable process is essential to serving the legitimate public interest.
The organization cited Section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which explicitly states that the INEC chairman “shall be appointed by the President and the appointment shall be subject to confirmation by the Senate,” following consultation with the Council of State.
In addition to the Chairman’s role, SERAP called on President Tinubu to immediately review recent appointments into the commission.
The group highlighted the alleged nomination of three members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs).SERAP urged the President to replace any such partisan appointees with individuals unaffiliated with any political party to protect INEC’s independence.
SERAP emphasized that the next INEC chairman must be “non-partisan, impartial, and independent,” capable of implementing the Electoral Act without fear or favour.
The group warned that secrecy would violate constitutional and international obligations, ultimately undermining the citizens’ right to free and fair elections.SERAP gave the Federal Government seven days to comply with its demands for disclosure and review, or face legal action.
The organization described the upcoming appointment as one of the most decisive steps leading up to the 2027 polls, given Professor Yakubu leaves behind a mixed legacy marked by praised logistics but criticized technology deployment.