By Olufemi Aduwo
The credibility and independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) serve as the cornerstones of Nigeria’s democratic edifice. The appointment of the INEC chairman is neither a perfunctory political decision, nor a mere extension of executive discretion. Rather, it is a matter of national consequence, one that will dictate not only the operational efficacy of the Commission but also the legitimacy of electoral outcomes and public confidence in the democratic process.
Having engaged extensively with former INEC chairmen, I have garnered first-hand insight into the intricacies of electoral administration. If there is one immutable truth, it is that leadership defines institutions.
Regardless of the controversies that trailed Prof. Attahiru Jega’s tenure, President Goodluck Jonathan exhibited political maturity by allowing him to conduct the 2015 general elections, thereby fortifying democratic norms. Before the 2015 general election, Jega submitted his resignation letter to the Office of the President, which Jonathan declined to accept, despite pressure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remove him. This act was a mark of honour for Jonathan.
President Bola Tinubu must be reminded that the appointment of a credible electoral umpire is not a favour to the nation, it is an obligation.
A ‘cash-and-carry’ chairman or a political lackey, devoid of moral fortitude, will inevitably eviscerate public trust in the process. It is imperative to eschew political patronage in this appointment, and instead, seek out men and women of unimpeachable integrity.
Nigeria is not bereft of individuals who can uphold the sanctity of elections. We have former INEC Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), who have consistently demonstrated resilience, impartiality, and an unwavering commitment to democratic tenets.
Likewise, distinguished jurists, scholars and other seasoned professionals can be entrusted with this sacrosanct duty.
It is, therefore, a grave dereliction of duty to appoint individuals with chequered histories, those who, in previous capacities, compromised their oaths of office, subordinated their responsibilities to vested political interests, or facilitated electoral malpractices. A house built on a foundation of quicksand will not withstand the storm, and if we falter in ensuring that INEC is led by a resolute and incorruptible figure, then the entire democratic framework will be imperilled.
The INEC chairman is not a mere administrator; he is the Chief Electoral Officer of the Federation and, crucially, the Chief Returning Officer of the Presidential Poll. If this office is compromised, then democracy itself is imperilled.
It is imperative to recognise that a credible electoral umpire does not preclude President Tinubu’s victory in 2027, just as a compromised chairman does not guarantee electoral advantage for the ruling party.
An electoral officer, whose primary allegiance is to his stomach rather than the Constitution, is a clear and present danger to the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic order. The 2027 elections must be overseen by individuals, whose moral compasses remain unshaken by political inducements.
A nation’s destiny is forged at the ballot box and a credible INEC is not a luxury, it is a necessity. The time to act is now. The appointment of the next INEC chairman must be subjected to the highest ethical scrutiny, for the fate of Nigeria’s democracy hinges upon it.
• Aduwo is a Permanent Representative of the Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) to the United Nations.