President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to confirm two nominees for positions as National Commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This move is part of his ongoing efforts to strengthen the electoral body and ensure its effective functioning. The nominees under consideration are Abdulrazaq Tukur, who is set to represent the North West, and Sunday Ajah, representing the South East.
In addition to the national commissioner nominees, President Tinubu has also put forward Honourable Saseyi Feyijimi Ibiyemi for the role of Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ondo State. This nomination is significant as it highlights the administration’s commitment to appoint qualified individuals to key positions within the electoral framework. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, read the president’s letter during a plenary session on Tuesday, indicating the importance of this legislative process.
President Tinubu emphasized that the nominations align with Section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended. He expressed confidence that the Senate would act promptly to confirm the nominees, urging them to consider the appointments expeditiously. This appeal underscores the expectation for a collaborative relationship between the executive and legislative branches in the governance process.
Following the reading of the letter, the Senate President referred the nominations to the Committee on INEC and Electoral Matters. This committee is tasked with scrutinizing the nominees and ensuring that they meet the necessary qualifications and standards for their respective roles. The committee is expected to report back to the Senate for further legislative action, which is a crucial step in the confirmation process.
However, the nomination of Abdulrazaq Tukur has sparked controversy and criticism regarding the adherence to the Federal Character Principle. This principle is designed to promote balanced representation across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, ensuring that no single region dominates key positions within federal institutions. Critics argue that appointing Tukur would increase the North West’s representation in INEC to three national commissioners, raising concerns about regional equity.
Currently, the North West is represented by Prof. Abdullahi Zuru from Kebbi State and Prof. Muhammed Kallah from Katsina State, both of whom reportedly have over a year remaining in their first five-year renewable terms. This situation has led to heightened scrutiny of the nominations, as stakeholders question whether the appointments reflect the diverse interests of all regions in Nigeria.
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have voiced their objections to the additional nomination, arguing that it violates the Federal Character Principle. These organizations advocate for balanced representation in government appointments, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in Nigeria’s political landscape. Their concerns highlight the ongoing debates surrounding regional representation and equity in governance.
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Ezenwa Nwagwu, the Executive Director of the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), has been particularly vocal in criticizing the nomination of Tukur. He argues that the move undermines the principles of fairness and balanced representation that are crucial for fostering national unity. Nwagwu’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among civil society regarding the need for transparency and accountability in the appointment process.
As the Senate prepares to deliberate on these nominations, the discussions are expected to encompass various perspectives on regional representation and the implications of the appointments for Nigeria’s electoral integrity. The outcome of this process will not only impact the nominees but also set a precedent for future appointments within INEC and other federal bodies.
In conclusion, the nominations put forth by President Tinubu have ignited a complex dialogue about representation, governance, and the principles that guide appointments in Nigeria. As the Senate moves forward with its review, the emphasis will likely remain on ensuring that the electoral commission reflects the diverse tapestry of the nation and adheres to constitutional mandates.
