Senate Confirms Five New Resident Electoral Commissioners for INEC: A Big Step Forward for Nigeria’s Democracy

In a significant development for Nigeria’s electoral process, the Senate has officially confirmed the appointment of five new Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This important decision was reached following the adoption of a report presented by the Senate Committee on INEC during the plenary session held on Wednesday, May 14.

The newly confirmed Resident Electoral Commissioners are Umar Yusuf Garba, Sa’ad Umar Idris, Chukwuemeka Obeziako, Umar Mukhtar, and Johnson Alalibo Sinikiem. Their appointments come under the constitutional framework set by Section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, which governs the procedures and qualifications for such appointments.

The Senate Committee on INEC, led by Senator Sharafadeen Alli who represents Oyo South, thoroughly reviewed all the nominees. The committee concluded that each candidate met the necessary qualifications and requirements to hold the important office of Resident Electoral Commissioner. This means they are fully prepared and eligible to carry out the responsibilities that come with the role.

Speaking on the occasion, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the senators and the committee responsible for the speedy and efficient handling of the confirmation process. He also praised President Bola Tinubu for submitting what he described as a “strong list of candidates,” underscoring the importance of having qualified individuals to oversee Nigeria’s elections.

“Let me thank my colleagues, particularly the committee on INEC and electoral matters, for a job well done. I congratulate all the newly confirmed electoral commissioners,” Akpabio said during the plenary.

He continued, “I wish them success as they take on the responsibilities of INEC, and urge them to act fairly and equitably to promote democracy and ensure justice for all.”

The Senate President further emphasized the importance of integrity and fairness in their new roles, stating, “These are square pegs in square holes. I pray Almighty God grants them the wisdom to do justice, not only to politicians, but also to the Nigerian voter, so that every vote will count and no one will be shortchanged. I congratulate them and wish them well.”

Each of these newly confirmed Resident Electoral Commissioners is expected to serve a five-year term, during which they will be critical players in managing elections across Nigeria’s diverse states, helping to strengthen the country’s democratic process.

The nominations for these positions were initially communicated to the Senate by President Bola Tinubu through a formal letter dated March 18. In this letter, the President clearly stated: “In compliance with the provision of section 154(1) of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), I am pleased to forward for confirmation by the senate, the appointment of the following five (5) nominees as Resident Electoral Commissioners in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).”

President Tinubu also provided clarification regarding a previous submission, noting, “The distinguished senate is invited to note that this letter which supersedes my earlier one referenced pres134/2 dated 12th day of March is occasioned by my consideration and approval of the commissioner from Borno state for reappointment for a second term.”

This reappointment underscores the administration’s confidence in continuity and experience as vital components of effective electoral management.

Overall, this confirmation marks a crucial step forward in Nigeria’s electoral journey, signaling strong governmental commitment to ensuring that INEC is staffed with competent and trustworthy individuals who will work diligently to guarantee free, fair, and credible elections in the country.