The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to disclose the details of the process for appointing the next chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). In a letter dated September 27, signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP emphasized the need for transparency in the selection and appointment process.

According to SERAP, Nigerians have the right to know the number and names of candidates vying for the position of INEC chairman, as well as whether the Council of State has been consulted, as required by the constitution. The organization stressed that the appointment process should not be secretive, stating that “the selection and appointment process for Mr Yakubu’s replacement cannot and should not be a closed shop.” Instead, openness and transparency are essential to maintain public trust in the commission’s independence and impartiality.

The call for transparency comes as Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure as INEC chairman is set to end in November, after serving for 10 years. SERAP highlighted the importance of appointing a non-partisan, independent, impartial, and neutral individual to the position, emphasizing that secrecy in the appointment process would undermine INEC’s credibility.

By making the appointment process transparent, the organization hopes to promote accountability and ensure that the next INEC chairman is chosen based on merit and qualifications. As the electoral commission plays a critical role in Nigeria’s democratic process, the appointment of its chairman is a significant development that warrants public scrutiny. The disclosure of the appointment process details would be a step towards promoting transparency and accountability in the country’s electoral system.