The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to disclose details of the process being used to appoint a new Chairman for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The current chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, is due to leave office in November 2025.
In a letter signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP asked the president to publish the names of shortlisted candidates, the criteria being used for their selection, and whether the Council of State will be consulted as required by the constitution. The group said transparency in the process is critical to ensuring public trust in the electoral body.
SERAP also warned against appointing individuals who are members of political parties or have partisan affiliations. It argued that the independence of INEC is vital for credible elections in 2027 and beyond.
The group threatened legal action if the government fails to provide the requested information within seven days. SERAP said Nigerian citizens have a right to know how the leadership of a key democratic institution is chosen.
