The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to make public the details of the selection and appointment process for the successor to Professor Mahmood Yakubu, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), whose tenure is set to expire in November 2025.SERAP, in a statement issued on Sunday, urged the President to ensure openness and transparency in choosing the next electoral chief, stressing that the process must inspire public trust and confidence ahead of future elections.
The group noted that Nigerians have the right to know how candidates for such a crucial position are nominated and appointed, adding that secrecy in the process could undermine the credibility of the electoral system.“Disclosing the criteria, procedures, and considerations for the appointment will demonstrate the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance,” the statement read in part.SERAP further maintained that ensuring a fair and credible process would help strengthen the independence of INEC and safeguard Nigeria’s democracy.
The organization urged President Tinubu to “act swiftly” and provide the requested information to the public, emphasizing that the credibility of the nation’s electoral body rests largely on the integrity of its leadership.Professor Yakubu, who was first appointed in 2015 and reappointed for a second term in 2020, will complete his tenure as INEC chairman in November 2025.