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As the tenure of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, draws to a close, tension has heightened over Nigeria’s ability to make the right choice in appointing his successor.
Yakubu, who was first appointed in 2015 by former President Muhammadu Buhari and reappointed in 2020, will complete his second five-year term in October 2025. During his 10 years as INEC boss, he oversaw two general elections in 2019 and 2023.
While some political observers anticipate a smooth transition, others remain sceptical, citing doubts about the transparency and fairness of the appointment process.
A major point of contention is which geopolitical zone should produce the next INEC chairman. Lobbying efforts have intensified, with some groups advocating for a candidate from the North-Central zone, while others argue for a candidate from either the South-South or South-East.
Under the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the President has the power to nominate an INEC chairman, subject to confirmation by the Senate.
Given the ruling All Progressives Congress’ (APC) majority in the Senate, analysts believe the President’s choice is likely to be approved without resistance.
In a conversation with Nigerian Tribune, the immediate past National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo (Worldwide), Alex Ogbonna, dismissed expectations of a merit-based and transparent nomination process.
Ogbonna said, “Our President is a Jagaban in all respects. The geopolitical zone does not make meaning to Jagaban. What makes meaning to Jagaban is a man who has been tested and trusted in his own values. The APC has the required majority in the Senate to approve his nominee.
“The Nigerian brand of democracy is rare and unique. It didn’t start today. From the time of Alhaji Shehu Shagari to the present, the president appoints the electoral officers and the general public would expect the appointee to be neutral in an election involving his benefactor. That is one major Nigerian paradox.”
With barely three months left before Yakubu steps down, concerns are mounting over whether the appointment of a new INEC chair will inspire public confidence or deepen scepticism about Nigeria’s electoral integrity.
A legal luminary, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, who spoke with Nigerian Tribune, stated, “Tinubu’s INEC Chairman will be Yoruba.
“How will such an appointment undermine the constitution please, and how is it different from what Tinubu has done so far?”
Odinkalu said the president has not demonstrated sensitivity to complaints arising from some of his actions.
The post Yakubu’s Replacement: ‘Tinubu’s INEC Chairman Will Be Yoruba’ – Odinkalu appeared first on Naija News.
