Yiaga Africa has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that future the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) appointments strictly adhere to the constitutional requirements of non-partisanship and unquestionable integrity.
Samson Itodo, Executive Director, Yiaga Africa, reacting to the Wednesday’s removal of three INEC RECs by President Tinubu in the statement said the removal highlighted the critical importance of appointing competent and capable individuals to INEC positions.
“Future appointments must prioritize the qualifications and expertise of nominees to ensure INEC’s effectiveness.
“We also urge the President to ensure that future INEC appointments strictly adhere to the constitutional requirements of non-partisanship and unquestionable integrity.
“Furthermore, the Senate is encouraged to review its confirmation procedure to ensure comprehensive due diligence in vetting candidates for INEC positions,” Itodo said.
While welcoming the president’s decision to sack the RECs, Yiaga Africa said this will reinforce trust in the electoral process.
“Yiaga Africa welcomes President Tinubu’s request to the Nigerian Senate for the removal of the suspended Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) for Adamawa, Abia and Sokoto states based on gross misconduct.
“The request follows the suspension of the RECs by INEC in March 2023, in direct response to their involvement in actions that compromised the neutrality and integrity of INEC.
“The Adamawa REC, Barrister Hudu Yunusa-Ari, unlawfully usurped the Returning Officer’s role during the Adamawa State governorship election, declaring false results.
“Meanwhile, the Sokoto REC, Dr. Nura Ali, and the Abia REC, Mr. Ike Uzochukwu, were suspended for dereliction of duty.
“Notably, the Sokoto REC is currently under prosecution by the Federal Government for alleged bribery and corruption related to the 2023 elections.
“Yiaga Africa calls on the Nigerian Senate to expeditiously approve the President’s request to remove these RECs to uphold accountability and reinforce trust in the electoral process,” the statement said.
