Tinubu Appoints New INEC Commissioners Amid Mixed Reactions

By Diafa Doubra,

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of seven new National Commissioners and one Resident Electoral Commissioner for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a move that has drawn both praise and criticism from political stakeholders across Nigeria.

The appointments, announced by Presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale, are in line with the powers conferred on the President by Section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and were made following recommendations from the National Council of State. The nominees are now awaiting confirmation by the Nigerian Senate.

Among the new appointees is Prof. Rhoda Gumus, a respected academic and statistician, who will serve as a National Commissioner representing the South-South. Others include Prof. Sani Adam (North Central), and Mohammed Haruna (North East), with backgrounds in law, media, and governance.

While some have commended the diversity and academic credentials of the nominees, civil society groups and opposition parties have raised concerns about possible partisanship. Critics argue that a few of the appointees have past affiliations with political parties, which could threaten INEC’s impartiality, especially with the 2027 general elections approaching.

However, supporters of the President insist the appointments reflect competence and regional balance. They believe the new commissioners will strengthen the commission’s capacity to conduct credible and transparent elections.

As the Senate prepares for screening, all eyes remain on INEC, an institution central to Nigeria’s democratic process and political stability.