SERAP Urges President Tinubu to Disclose INEC Chairman Appointment Process

SERAP Urges President Tinubu to Disclose INEC Chairman Appointment Process

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently disclose the details of the selection and appointment process for the next chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). With Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure set to end in November 2025, SERAP emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in the appointment process.

Transparency in the selection process would improve public trust in INEC’s independence and impartiality, crucial for citizens’ participation in the electoral process.
A transparent process ensures competent and impartial individuals are appointed, reducing conflict of interest risks and allowing Nigerians to scrutinize and engage with the process.
SERAP stresses that the appointment process should not be a “closed shop” and that openness would serve legitimate public interests, strengthening democratic and electoral processes.

SERAP urges President Tinubu to disclose the number and names of candidates for INEC chairman.
The organization demands clarity on whether the Council of State has been or will be consulted in making the appointment, as constitutionally required.
SERAP also calls on President Tinubu to reconsider appointing alleged APC members as Resident Electoral Commissioners and instead nominate non-members of political parties .

The appointment of a new INEC chairman is critical ahead of the 2027 general elections. SERAP’s demand for transparency aims to ensure the electoral body’s independence and impartiality, which are fundamental to the integrity of Nigeria’s elections and effectiveness of citizens’ democratic rights .