Call To Strip Nigerian President Of Power To Appoint INEC Chairman Gains Momentum.
Abuja, Nigeria – Alhaji Yabagi Sani, the National Chairman of the Advanced Democratic Party (ADP), has urged the National Assembly to amend the Nigerian Constitution to remove the president’s authority to appoint the Chairman and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The call, made during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Sunday, 29 June 2025, also extended to reviewing the president’s power to appoint the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
Sani argued that vesting such critical appointments in the hands of the president, who is often a candidate in elections, undermines the neutrality essential for a fair electoral process. “It is not good for the president to appoint the INEC chairman and everybody that matters in the commission,” he stated, highlighting the risk of political interference in Nigeria’s democratic system. He suggested that apolitical bodies, such as the National Judicial Council, civil society organisations, and the media, should play a more significant role in selecting electoral and police chiefs to ensure impartiality.
Drawing inspiration from countries like the United States and Mexico, where police chiefs are often elected rather than appointed, Sani called for a system that fosters independence and accountability. He stressed that the National Assembly should prioritise constitutional amendments to create a level playing field, particularly as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections. “These changes are vital for our democracy to be properly grounded,” he said.
The ADP chairman’s remarks come amid broader discussions on electoral reform, with growing concerns about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process following the 2023 general elections. Sani, who contested in the last presidential election and previously served as chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), noted that his advocacy for electoral reform cost him his IPAC position. Nevertheless, he expressed pride in contributing to the sustenance of Nigeria’s democracy.
This call aligns with similar demands from civil society groups and pro-democracy activists. The Youth Electoral Reform Project (YERP-Naija) and other organisations have also urged the National Assembly to strip the president of INEC appointment powers, proposing an independent panel to oversee the selection process. Such a panel, they suggest, could include representatives from the National Judicial Council, the Nigerian Bar Association, and other key institutions to enhance transparency.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, Sani’s proposal has sparked renewed debate about the need for systemic changes to strengthen democratic institutions. With the tenure of INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu nearing its end, the spotlight is on the National Assembly to address these concerns and ensure a more transparent and credible electoral process.