The Social Democratic Party’s National Chairman, Malam Shehu Gabam, has urged for a true and unbiased independence for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold Nigeria’s election credibility. In a press briefing in Abuja, he called upon the executive, judiciary, and legislature to abide by the rule of law to enhance the electoral procedures in the nation.
While acknowledging INEC’s efforts in the 2023 general election and off-cycle elections, particularly in logistics, Gabam expressed concerns about the significant influence of the executive on INEC’s operations. He emphasized that the commission’s performance is hindered by this overarching executive influence, stating that the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, is severely limited in conducting elections.
According to Gabam, the INEC chairman’s scope of action is primarily focused on producing and delivering election materials, deployment of staff, and election supervision. He highlighted that the appointment of the INEC chairman, national commissioners, and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) is under the purview of the executive, led by the President, as stipulated by law.
Gabam’s call underscores the need for a more autonomous INEC, free from external pressures, to ensure transparent and fair electoral processes. His plea amplifies the growing demand for institutional integrity, laying the foundation for unbiased and credible elections in Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
