Situation Room Flags Danger of Partisan Confirmation in INEC Chair Screening

The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room has warned the Senate against a partisan approach in the confirmation of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stressing that political bias in the appointment could undermine public confidence in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on ARISE News on Friday, the group’s Convener, Yunusa Yau, urged lawmakers to ensure a transparent and citizen-inclusive screening process that values integrity, courage, and impartiality over political loyalty or academic accolades.

“We need someone who can stand up and speak the truth to power. INEC must be led by a person who is not a member of any political party, neither in the night nor in the day,” Yau said.

He called on the Senate to avoid repeating past mistakes where nominees were approved without rigorous scrutiny, noting that the credibility of the electoral umpire would determine the legitimacy of future elections.

“We want an open screening process where Nigerians can contribute, and people familiar with the nominee can provide input,” Yau said. “Appointing someone with partisan leanings will only compromise the electoral process.”

The Situation Room also demanded that the National Assembly open the screening to public petitions and inputs, while urging the presidency to publish the nominee’s credentials and professional background for Nigerians to assess.

“The president needs to be transparent. Nigerians should know who this person is and what experience they bring. We can no longer accept names without proper evaluation,” he stressed.

On electoral reforms, Yau highlighted that amending the Electoral Act is as critical as appointing credible leadership. He advocated for a clear legal mandate for INEC to transmit election results electronically, citing ambiguities in the 2023 polls that fueled disputes.

“We need a clear legal directive mandating INEC to transmit results electronically,” he said.

While acknowledging that incumbent administrations often resist reforms that limit their influence, Yau insisted that civic pressure could compel the National Assembly to act in the public interest.

“When Nigerians are mobilized, they can compel lawmakers to legislate in favor of the people,” he noted.

He concluded by cautioning against a “rubber-stamp” Senate, emphasizing that the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy hinges on thorough and impartial legislative scrutiny.