The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to publicly disclose the criteria, procedures, and considerations guiding the appointment of the next Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a letter dated September 27, 2025, and signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization emphasized the importance of transparency and public trust in Nigeria’s electoral institutions. The current INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, is expected to conclude his tenure later this year.
“Disclosing the appointment process will enhance public confidence in the independence and integrity of INEC, and ensure that the selection is based on merit, competence, and adherence to democratic principles,” the letter stated.
SERAP urged the President to publish the legal framework, selection committee details, and any public consultation mechanisms involved in the process. The organization also requested that the administration commit to avoiding political interference and ensure that the appointee is free from partisan affiliations.
The group warned that failure to act could undermine Nigeria’s electoral credibility and violate citizens’ right to participate in governance under Article 13 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.